In a devastating incident at Aisha Manzil, the heart of Gulberg subdivision, a six-storied Arshi Manzil, housing both commercial and residential spaces, succumbed to a fierce blaze. The tragedy, claiming 5 lives and reducing 74 apartments and 130 shops to ashes, has brought to light the gross incompetence of the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) and other civic bodies.
Negligence Exposed:
Caretaker Sindh Chief Minister Justice (Retd) Maqbool Baqar minced no words, attributing the catastrophic fire to the “utter failure, criminal negligence, and inefficiency” of the SBCA and other responsible bodies. Expressing deep regret, he emphasized that had the SBCA diligently implemented building codes, this colossal fire could have been averted.
Official Inquiry Ordered:
In response to the tragedy, the Chief Minister promptly ordered a comprehensive inquiry to fix responsibility. He asserted that those found delinquent would held accountable for their actions. This investigative move aims to ensure justice for the victims and prevent such incidents in the future.
Safety Measures Ignored:
Highlighting a blatant disregard for safety protocols, Justice Baqar lamented the absence of essential fire safety systems and designated fire tender routes in the ill-fated building. The Chief Minister revealed that prior directives for safety and security audits of public and private structures issued, yet they blatantly ignored. He pledged to enforce safety audits for all key buildings to address existing shortcomings.
Support for Victims:
In the wake of the tragedy, the Chief Minister promised support for the affected residents and traders. He assured a thorough assessment of the losses incurred and expressed the Sindh government’s commitment to aid those affected by the calamity.
Proactive Measures:
To prevent hasty reoccupation of the burnt apartments, Justice Baqar directed the district administration to enforce a strict prohibition until the SBCA inspects the building and declares its safety status. Temporary camps for affected individuals proposed to ensure their accommodation during this period.
Residents’ Access Limited:
In a crucial directive, the Chief Minister underscored that residents would only be permitted to access their flats one by one. This measure aims to ensure the secure retrieval of remaining belongings and the proper securing of each apartment.
On-Site Inspection:
The Chief Minister personally inspected the charred remains of Arshi Manzil, meeting with affected individuals. Initial reports from Deputy Commissioner Central Fawad Soomro attributed the fire to a reported short circuit that originated in a ground-floor commercial shop, subsequently engulfing the entire structure.
Prompt Response:
Despite the prompt mobilization of the Fire Brigade and 1122 Rescue, the magnitude of the blaze required considerable time and effort to brought under control. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for stringent adherence to safety regulations.
In the aftermath of this calamity, Sindh awaits the findings of the official inquiry, hopeful for justice and determined to rectify the systemic failures that led to this tragic loss.
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