Lyari building collapse: Sindh govt suspends DG SBCA

Karachi (Web Desk): Following the tragic collapse of a five-storey residential building in Karachi’s Lyari area, which claimed 27 lives including women, men, and a young child, the Sindh government has taken decisive disciplinary action.

In response, the director general (DG) of the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) has been removed from his position, while other officials responsible for monitoring construction activities in Lyari have also been suspended.

The incident not only resulted in fatalities but also left ten individuals injured, with one person still undergoing medical treatment. Additionally, nearby structures suffered damage — two were structurally weakened, and a recently constructed six-storey building had to be evacuated as a safety precaution, although some activity there reportedly continued.

Authorities have since identified 51 other buildings across Karachi deemed to be in dangerous condition.

These structures have been marked for immediate demolition, and the Karachi commissioner has been tasked with compiling detailed information about residents and housing units within 24 hours to facilitate swift relocation and safety measures.

Provincial officials stressed the urgency of moving people out of unsafe buildings to prevent future tragedies.

During a media briefing, prominent provincial ministers announced plans for legal action against any officials found to have been negligent.

They also emphasized a commitment to enforcing strict accountability and implementing amendments to existing SBCA laws within two weeks to curb unauthorized construction and enhance public safety.

Concerns have emerged over the SBCA’s delayed response and lack of communication regarding potentially unstable buildings near the collapse site.

As part of broader safety efforts, a new investigative body, headed by the Karachi commissioner, will examine hundreds of old and deteriorating buildings throughout the city.

The government has also reaffirmed its commitment to improving living conditions in Karachi’s 586 identified at-risk buildings. Families of those who died in the collapse will receive one million rupees in financial assistance, with special consideration given to minority communities affected by the tragedy.

The provincial spokesperson assured that all victims, regardless of background, will receive equal support and that a full recovery and rehabilitation strategy is being formulated.

The Sindh government has reiterated its priority to safeguard residents, especially those in vulnerable areas like Lyari, and to ensure that administrative negligence is not tolerated.