Unsafe construction practices have become increasingly prevalent in many parts of our cities, particularly in Karachi. As a civil engineer, I have witnessed firsthand the consequences of poor workmanship, substandard materials, and the lack of adherence to safety codes and regulations.
One critical aspect often overlooked is soil testing. Without proper soil analysis, there’s no way to determine whether the ground can support the structure. Inadequate soil testing has led to structural failures and building collapses, causing property damage and loss of life. Equally important is the role of a qualified structural engineer in the design and execution of any project. Unfortunately, construction is often overseen by individuals who lack the necessary qualifications, leading to unsafe buildings. Structural designs must be done by certified engineers who understand the complexities of load bearing, material strengths, and seismic safety.
Additionally, construction projects must be supervised by experienced engineers throughout the entire process. Too often, projects are managed by inexperienced personnel, leading to critical safety oversights. There is also a significant violation of building byelaws in various areas, where developers bypass safety measures to cut costs. This is particularly concerning in high-density urban areas where developers prioritise profits over safety. The lack of regulation enforcement exacerbates this issue.
The authorities must take immediate action by ensuring mandatory soil testing before construction, requiring structural designs to be prepared by certified engineers, strengthening enforcement of building codes and safety standards, improving transparency in construction permits and inspections, providing awareness and training to contractors on safe practices, Ensuring supervision by experienced engineers. Public safety must be prioritised over economic gains to prevent further tragedies. Collective effort is needed to hold developers accountable and protect citizens from unsafe living conditions.
Muhammad Anwar Ul Haque
Karachi
