HYDERABAD — The devastating building collapse in Karachi’s Lyari area that claimed 27 lives has finally prompted Hyderabad’s civic authorities to take action — albeit limited — against the city’s dangerously aging structures.
In a high-level meeting held at his office, Deputy Commissioner Zain-ul-Abideen Memon acknowledged that while 74 structurally weak buildings were identified across Hyderabad last year, only a few have undergone repairs. “Many of these buildings still pose a grave risk to residents,” a post-meeting statement revealed.
To accelerate preventive measures, the DC directed all Assistant Commissioners to coordinate closely with the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA). Their immediate task: conduct a fresh and speedy field survey and update the list of dilapidated buildings across the city.
During the meeting, SBCA officials raised concerns that several occupants of already-marked hazardous buildings are refusing to vacate, despite formal notices and clear threats to their safety. In response, DC Memon issued stern instructions to enforce evacuations with police assistance if necessary. He further ordered that First Information Reports (FIRs) be registered against residents who defy these life-saving directives, as outlined in SBCA’s regulations.
To support these efforts, the administration has also promised to provide security for field teams and address the shortage of demolition equipment. “No building deemed dangerous will be allowed to remain standing over the heads of our people,” Memon asserted firmly.
Beyond enforcement, the administration plans to launch a public awareness campaign to encourage citizens to report unsafe buildings and cooperate during demolitions when required. All concerned departments have been instructed to submit updated reports, including photographic evidence of inspections, by July 14 — the date set for the next review meeting
