27 dead in Lyari building collapse as rescue operation ends

A 50-hour-long rescue operation concluded on Sunday in Karachi’s Lyari neighbourhood after the collapse of a five-storey residential building, confirming the deaths of 27 people and injuries to 11 others.

According to Civil Hospital Karachi, the deceased include 11 women, 16 men, and a 1.5-year-old girl. One woman, 55-year-old Fatima, succumbed to her injuries during treatment, while 10 of the injured were discharged after receiving medical care. Most of the casualties suffered head injuries, and a significant number belonged to the Hindu community.

The final victim recovered was 15-year-old Muhammad Zaid, whose body was found after renewed digging at a site where multiple bodies had already been retrieved. Zaid’s father and two brothers also died in the incident.

Rescue 1122 and Edhi Foundation officials noted that over 95% of the debris had been cleared. Rescue efforts were extended to ensure no further victims remained trapped. Cash, jewellery, and cheques recovered from the rubble were handed over to the local administration.

Several vehicles parked under the building were also destroyed. Officials cited narrow streets and overcrowding as major challenges during the rescue operation.

In the aftermath, another seven-storey building in Lyari’s Agra Taj Colony was evacuated due to visible structural damage following recent monsoon rains. Declared dangerous by the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA), the structure housed 57 residents. Authorities sealed the building and disconnected utilities.

Lyari Municipal Officer Hammad ND Khan stated that the Sindh government plans to evacuate all hazardous buildings in the area, with a formal policy under discussion. Temporary shelter has been provided, though residents expressed dissatisfaction with living conditions.

SBCA has registered an FIR against the builder and an unnamed contractor for using substandard materials and illegal construction methods. Officials have vowed legal action against any government personnel found responsible.