Govt to expedite evacuation of dangerous buildings, demolish those already evacuated

The government has decided to take strict action against the buildings standing in the worst condition in Karachi. However, priority measures for the safety of citizens are taken after the government has ordered demolition and excavations of buildings.

The step for the demolition amid safety concerns was decided by Provincial Minister for Local Government Syed Nasir Hussain Shah on Thursday at the Karachi commissioner's office.

The meeting participants, however, agreed on the excavations of old buildings and those already not in use. It was also decided to rehabilitate the affected people.

The commissioner of Karachi apprised the minister of the fact that the general survey of the highly dangerous 471 out of a total of 588 buildings had been completed by the assistant commissioners.

Participants at the meeting chose to prioritize efforts for the rehabilitation of people affected by the evacuation of 59 buildings.

It was decided that apartments would be built for the affected people.

“We need such surveys to be conducted in Hyderabad and Sukkur as well,” said Syed Nasir Hussain Shah.

Meanwhile, the electric connection to City View Apartments in Saddar and a dilapidated building has been disconnected on Wednesday as per orders from the Cantonment Board, as both properties have been declared uninhabitable.

However, a senior MQM-Pakistan leader, Dr. Farooq Sattar, visited this area, met with the Additional CEO of the Cantonment Board, Yamna Afzal, and, after a written guarantee was provided by the residents, the problem was also resolved, and electricity started to flow again.

Addressing the residents, Dr. Farooq Sattar said that the injustice being caused to around 200 flat owners, allegedly in collusion with the builder, will not continue.

He promised the residents his help in repairing the building.