The Layari Building Collapse in Karachi has claimed 27 lives so far, as rescue operations continue for the third consecutive day. The tragedy unfolded in the Baghdadi area of Lyari when a decades-old residential structure suddenly crumbled on Friday.
Rescue teams have recovered 26 bodies, including men, women, and children. One injured person later died in the hospital, taking the death toll to 27. Around 850 people have been rescued, while heavy machinery and heartbeat detection devices were used to search for more survivors trapped under debris.
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The Layari Building Collapse has shocked the community. Most of the victims’ funerals were held at Mowach Goth Maheshwari graveyard in Baldia. Rescue workers are nearing completion of debris removal, though officials believe a few more people might still be buried.
According to the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA), the collapsed building was over 30 years old and had been declared unsafe. Authorities claim they issued multiple evacuation notices, including one on 25 June 2025, but the building was neither vacated nor disconnected from utilities.
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah visited the site and expressed sorrow over the Layari Building Collapse. He assured a full investigation, promising action against those responsible. A high-level committee has been formed to submit its findings.
In a related development, another nearby building in Agra Taj was declared unsafe, triggering a fresh evacuation order. Some residents resisted leaving, demanding alternate accommodation. Authorities later convinced them to vacate and promised support.
The city of Karachi faces ongoing risks due to over 578 buildings classified as unsafe. Many continue to be occupied despite repeated warnings.
Meanwhile, police also foiled an illegal demolition attempt at a heritage site in Kharadar and arrested two suspects. The operation highlighted the urgent need for stronger building safety enforcement across the city.
