Rizvia rescue operation concludes

‘Risky’ nearby building vacated, owner of fallen building still on the run


​ Our Correspondent March 10, 2020
PHOTO: EXPRESS

KARACHI: The rescue operation following the collapse of a five-storey building in Rizvia Society was completed on Sunday night, while the building owner, Muhammad Javed Khan, has still not been arrested. As many as 27 bodies and several injured persons had been found during the four-day rescue operation.

The building had collapsed on Thursday, destroying two cars and leaving the adjoining building bent, leading to fears that it too may collapse. Several parts of a third building also collapsed, while a fourth building was declared 'dangerous' by the authorities. One of the buildings was vacated after officials declared that it was also at risk of caving in.

Rescue operations were carried out by the police, Rangers, army, fire department, Sindh Building Control Authority (SCBA) and relief services, with the assistance of area residents.

After rescue teams cleared the area, those affected by the tragedy gathered at the site, surveying the rubble that once was their home.

Complaining that no government officials had come to their aid, they expressed worries about how they would set up their residences once again. "Who will compensate us for the loss of lives and valuables?" they asked.

One of them explained that they had come to try to search for important documents buried in the rubble; however, he said, the authorities were not permitting them to go near the building.

Residents accused Khan of constructing three additional rooms on the rooftop of the building, claiming that the extra burden on the building had led to the incident. They also demanded that the government to compensate for their loss so that they can build their houses again.

The police, meanwhile, claimed that efforts were being made to arrest Khan, adding that he would soon be apprehended.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 10th, 2020.

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