Tragic Collapse in Lyari: ABAD Blames Neglect, Offers Reconstruction Plan

Karachi, July 4, 2025: Chairman of the Association of Builders and Developers of Pakistan (ABAD), Muhammad Hassan Bakshi, has expressed deep sorrow and grief over the tragic collapse of an eight-storey dilapidated building in the Baghdadi area of Lyari, Karachi, which claimed the lives of more than five people and left dozens injured.
Bakshi said this heart-wrenching incident has once again highlighted the serious threat posed by dozens of similar unsafe buildings still standing in the city. Without timely repair or evacuation, such buildings could lead to more tragic events in the future.
He urged the Sindh government to ensure that the injured receive immediate and complete medical assistance without any negligence. “Reports suggest that many people are still trapped under the debris. I appeal to the Sindh government to provide full support to rescue teams to safely retrieve them,” he stated.
Bakshi emphasized that ABAD and its members stand in solidarity with the victims and share their grief in this difficult time. He also urged government institutions to take swift action for the financial and psychological rehabilitation of the affected families so they can recover from this tragedy.
Highlighting the structural dangers, he noted that there are dozens of dangerously weak buildings in Karachi posing a continuous threat to human life. He categorized buildings in the city into three types:Legally constructed buildings by ABAD member builders, fully compliant with safety codes and regulations.Old buildings, constructed 50 years ago or earlier, which have now become unsafe and Illegally constructed buildings, built without approved plans, using substandard materials, and without certified engineers—making them a serious risk to life.
He warned that illegal constructions use poor quality materials and lack professional oversight, which greatly endangers public safety. Despite ABAD raising concerns multiple times, the lack of effective action has worsened the situation.
Bakshi offered a solution to the Sindh government: ABAD is ready to replace these dilapidated structures with high-rise buildings of international standards, offering free, safe, and modern housing to the current residents. However, this plan would require appropriate legislation from the Sindh Assembly to proceed legally.
He concluded by appealing to the government to urgently survey dangerous buildings, begin evacuations, and seriously consider ABAD’s proposal to ensure the long-term safety of Karachi’s citizens.