Govt moves to demolish unsafe buildings after Lyari collapse

Following the collapse of a five-storey building in Lyari that killed at least 23 people, the Sindh government is set to launch a phased operation to evacuate and demolish all hazardous structures in the area. The building, located in the Baghdadi neighbourhood, came crashing down early Friday morning. It housed six families, and each floor reportedly contained three apartments. Municipal Officer of Lyari Town Municipal Corporation, Hammad N D Khan, told The Express Tribune that a high-level meeting, chaired by the Sindh chief minister, will be held on Monday to finalise the details of the operation. “The drive will begin immediately after approval and will be carried out in phases,” he said. “All hazardous buildings will be evacuated and demolished. A policy is also being developed to provide alternative housing to the displaced.” Read More: Lyari building collapse: Death toll rises to 23 as rescue work continues Khan said temporary arrangements had been made for the victims in community centres and hotels, but most families chose to stay with relatives. A few individuals remain in shelters, where the Lyari TMC is providing food and basic necessities. The rescue operation is expected to be completed by Sunday. Authorities have also vowed to take legal action against those involved in illegal construction practices in the area. Officials revealed that the collapsed building had been declared unsafe three years ago, but no enforcement action was taken, and residents continued to live there despite repeated warnings. Karachi South Deputy Commissioner Javed Khoso said notices had been issued in 2022, 2023, and earlier this year. Khoso added that of the 107 dangerous buildings identified in the district, 21 are considered highly hazardous, with 14 already vacated.

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