The Karachi building collapse in Lyari’s Baghdadi area has claimed at least 14 lives. The five-storey residential structure fell early Friday morning, leaving behind a scene of devastation and panic.
According to officials, nine people were injured in the incident. Rescue teams believe that 25 to 30 individuals may still be trapped under the rubble. Efforts are ongoing, with heavy machinery being used to remove debris.
The affected building had six families living in it. Each floor contained three separate residential portions. Authorities confirmed the structure was declared unsafe three years ago. Despite repeated warnings, the building was not vacated, and no enforcement action was taken.
Shortly after the Karachi building collapse, rescue workers arrived at the scene. However, communication problems due to weak mobile signals have slowed coordination. To ensure safety during operations, electricity and gas lines to the site have been disconnected.
As a precaution, nearby buildings—a two-storey and a seven-storey structure—have also been evacuated. Karachi Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi estimated the rescue operation could take up to 24 hours. He urged residents of other unsafe buildings to relocate voluntarily, highlighting the legal limitations of forced evictions.
The commissioner also announced a meeting with the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) to discuss illegal constructions in Karachi. Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner South, Javed Khoso, revealed that warning notices had been sent to the building’s residents in 2022, 2023, and again in 2024.
A review team has been formed to reassess dangerous buildings across the area. Out of 107 flagged structures, 21 are considered high-risk. So far, 14 of them have been evacuated.
Authorities stressed the need for a proper investigation before placing blame. The Karachi building collapse has raised urgent questions about enforcement, oversight, and public safety in high-risk residential areas.
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