Tragedy Strikes Karachi's Lyari Neighborhood
In a devastating incident, a six-story residential building in Karachi's Lyari area collapsed, resulting in 16 fatalities and leaving 13 injured. Rescue teams are relentlessly working amid intense heat to locate survivors, with at least eight residents reportedly still trapped beneath the rubble.
Chaos and Despair Among Families
The collapse occurred around 10 a.m. in the densely populated and economically challenged Baghdadi neighborhood. Witnesses described hearing ominous cracking sounds moments before the building gave way. As rescue crews continue their painstaking efforts through day and night, families desperately await news of their loved ones.
One grieving father shared the heartache of losing his daughter, who was married only six months ago and remains unaccounted for. Another resident reported his entire family trapped inside their apartment, expressing profound loss and uncertainty.
Warnings Issued, But Residents Dispute Notices
Authorities assert that the building had been officially declared unsafe, with eviction notices sent out repeatedly over the past three years. A senior district official emphasized that the government preferred phased and voluntary evacuation rather than forced removals, but claimed residents largely ignored these warnings.
The Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) confirmed that the structure was marked dangerous and highlighted that Karachi currently has 578 buildings flagged as unsafe, with District South containing the highest number. Officials have also noted structural damage to a neighboring building, now under close surveillance.
Residents Refute Responsibility and Recall Last-Minute Warnings
Contradicting authorities, residents maintain they never received formal eviction notices. One building owner expressed frustration, questioning the assumption that people would knowingly endanger their families. He recounted spotting cracks just hours before the collapse and urged evacuation, though not everyone heeded the alarm.
A resident described his wife's quick action upon noticing structural faults, managing to leave with their daughter mere minutes prior to the collapse. Unfortunately, some neighbors dismissed the risks, confident the building would endure for years.
Wider Concerns Over Unsafe Buildings in Karachi
The disaster has spotlighted deeper issues across Karachi, where multiple buildings have been identified as hazardous. Following the collapse, six additional unsafe structures were evacuated as a precautionary measure. The incident underscores the urgent need for improved enforcement and community awareness to prevent further loss of life.
