In the aftershock of a tragic building collapse in Lyari that claimed at least 23 lives, the Sindh government is preparing to launch a phased operation to evacuate and demolish all structurally unsafe buildings in the area.
The five-storey building, located in Baghdadi, fell early Friday morning. It contained six families, with three apartments on each floor.
Municipal Officer Hammad N D Khan told The Express Tribune that a high-level meeting led by the Sindh chief minister will be held on Monday to finalize the operation’s details.
“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.”
Temporary shelters have been set up in community centers and hotels, though most affected families have opted to stay with relatives.
A few remain in shelters where Lyari Town Municipal Corporation is providing meals and basic supplies.
The rescue effort is expected to conclude by Sunday. Authorities have also guaranteed to take strict legal action against those responsible for illegal construction in the area.
Officials said the collapsed structure had been declared dangerous three years ago, but no significant action was taken. Despite multiple warnings, residents remained in the building.
According to Karachi South Deputy Commissioner Javed Khoso, notices were issued in 2022, 2023, and earlier this year.
Of the 107 dangerous buildings identified in the district, 21 are believed extremely hazardous,14 of which have already been vacated.