Karachi Faces Urgent Danger from Sinking Multi-Storey Building on MA Jinnah Road

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The Karachi Development Authority (KDA) has raised serious concerns over a deteriorating multi-storey building on MA Jinnah Road that is reportedly sinking and at risk of collapse. Built in 1986–87, this structure’s foundation has been severely compromised by stagnant water accumulating in its basement, which engineers say may compromise the structural integrity of the building.

Located on Plot Nos. MC-4 and MC-7 in Sector 1 of the Lines Area Project, the building was never fully occupied. However, flats were still marketed to potential buyers despite the structure being unsafe. KDA officials have expressed concern that this may have placed unsuspecting residents at risk. On July 25, 2024, KDA formally alerted the SBCA Director General, requesting immediate demolition or designation as a “heritage building” to ensure responsible handling. Unfortunately, the SBCA’s response was limited to routine replies, with no confirmed formal action taken.

The situation worsened over the following year. On July 24, 2025, the KDA’s Deputy Director of Construction and Services (C&S) issued a renewed appeal to the SBCA Secretary for Dangerous Buildings. The letter underscored the urgent need to officially declare the structure hazardous and initiate demolition. Officials warned that any further delay could result in casualties if the structure collapses.

This alert follows the deadly Lyari building collapse last year that killed 27 people. In response, SBCA intensified inspections of unsafe buildings citywide. A committee of expert structural engineers surveyed District South and identified 59 buildings in critical condition, including 10 heritage structures. These dangerous buildings are concentrated in old, densely populated neighborhoods such as Arambagh, Lawrence Quarters, Napier Quarters, Saddar Bazaar, Telu Ram Quarters, and Old Town.

To date, 41 of these buildings have been evacuated and sealed. Efforts continue to clear residents from the remaining structures with support from local authorities. The next phase involves initiating demolition procedures to remove these threats to public safety.

SBCA urges citizens to report any structurally compromised buildings, whether due to internal damage, external deterioration, or visible instability, especially in older parts of the city. Reports can be made via the SBCA online portal at any time. This collaborative vigilance is crucial to preventing further disasters.

Delays in action on the MA Jinnah Road building have drawn attention to challenges in Karachi’s urban management system. Stronger oversight and prompt action are essential to protect Karachi’s communities from avoidable tragedies.