Karachi at Risk: 578 Buildings Declared Unsafe for Living

News Desk

Karachi: Despite formal warnings and repeated notices, hundreds of families continue to reside in dangerously dilapidated buildings across Karachi a ticking time bomb that experts say demands immediate government intervention.

According to an internal report by the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA), a total of 578 buildings have been officially declared unsafe and unfit for habitation, with the worst-hit area being District South, home to 456 of these hazardous structures.

The densely populated neighborhoods of Lyari and the Old City Area remain particularly vulnerable, with 107 buildings identified as structurally compromised. Other districts also show alarming numbers: Central (66), Keamari (23), Korangi (14), East (13), Malir (4), and West (2).

However, beyond issuing notices and placing banners, little action has followed. According to insiders, residents are rarely evacuated, and dangerous buildings remain occupied — even years after being marked unsafe.

This regulatory inaction came under harsh scrutiny after the collapse of a five-storey building in Lyari’s Baghdadi area on Friday morning. The structure, built in 1975, housed more than 40 people. SBCA claims it issued evacuation notices two years ago, and on June 25, 2025, asked utility providers to disconnect electricity and water supplies. However, neither services were cut, nor was the building vacated.

Urban safety experts and civil society members say the government must treat this as a humanitarian and public safety emergency, not just an administrative concern.

“Notices and banners won’t save lives,” said a senior urban planner. “Immediate evacuations, enforcement, and safe relocation options must be provided. Waiting for buildings to collapse means playing with people’s lives.”

The SBCA’s apparent lack of enforcement raises critical questions about accountability, especially in high-density areas where residents often lack the means or alternative housing options to voluntarily vacate unsafe structures.

As Karachi braces for monsoon season — which historically increases the risk of structural failures — calls are growing louder for the Sindh government to take decisive action. Without urgent measures, the city may face more preventable tragedies, and the cost will be paid in human lives.

Additional input from Geo News.