The Plasco building was built in 1962 by the prominent businessman Habib Elghanian, during a decade of rapid growth in Iran.

[2] At the time of its construction it was the tallest building in Iran,[1] and was considered an iconic landmark of the Tehran skyline, representing the drive for modernization under the rule of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi.

[12] The remains of 15 firefighters were recovered after nine days of relief and rescue operations[citation needed], which were aided by the local military.

[13] Tens of thousands of Iranians, including firefighters and senior officials, attended the funeral ceremony held at Tehran's Grand Mosalla.

Mohammad Saeedikia, CEO of Mostazafan Foundation also said that the organization is ready to rebuild the Plasco in two years.

[17] In April 2017 the government issued a report on the collapse of the building which stated that the Mostazafan Foundation had ignored warnings given by the authorities.