Karachi building collapse kills 14

Rescue operations are ongoing in Karachi's Lyari area following the collapse of a five-storey residential building. The death toll has risen to 14, with emergency services reporting that six to seven individuals may still be trapped under the rubble. Search and rescue teams have been working tirelessly, utilizing heavy machinery and specialized equipment to clear debris and locate survivors. 

The building, constructed in 1974, had been declared uninhabitable by the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA), which issued evacuation notices. Despite these warnings, many families continued to reside in the building, reportedly due to a lack of alternative housing options. 

In response to the tragedy, the SBCA has suspended several officials, including the Director and Deputy Director, for negligence. A high-level committee has been established to investigate the incident, with findings expected within three days. Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab has called for stricter enforcement of building safety regulations, highlighting that over 400 buildings in the city have been deemed dangerous. He emphasized the need for either persuading residents to evacuate or resorting to forceful evictions.

This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding building safety in Karachi, where the enforcement of construction standards is often inadequate. Building collapses are a recurring issue in Pakistan, primarily due to the use of substandard materials and insufficient adherence to safety regulations. Authorities are urging residents of other unsafe buildings to heed evacuation notices to prevent further tragedies as the situation remains critical.