Death toll climbs to 21 in residential building collapse in Pakistan’s southwest

At least 21 people have now been confirmed dead after a five-story residential building collapsed in Karachi's Lee Market area, with rescue workers continuing to search for survivors under the rubble.

The incident occurred in Lyari, one of the most densely populated neighborhoods of Karachi -- the sprawling port city in southern Pakistan.

Authorities say two more bodies, both women, were recovered Saturday, raising the confirmed death toll from the initial seven.

Among the deceased are six women, nine men, and a 10-year-old boy, according to rescue officials.

Emergency teams from Rescue 1122 and Chhipa Welfare have continued search operations, with estimates suggesting that 20 to 25 people may have been trapped at the time of the collapse. So far, six people — including three women — have been rescued alive.

Rescue crews are using heavy machinery and thermal imaging devices in a race against time to locate more survivors. The area remains cordoned off, and an official inquiry into the cause of the collapse is underway.

Sindh chief minister, governor respond

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah called the incident “an extremely tragic event” and demanded an immediate report from relevant authorities.

“This is a deeply saddening tragedy. The officials concerned must submit an immediate report,” Shah said in a statement. “Rescue teams should act swiftly to pull out those still buried beneath the debris.”

He also directed hospitals to ensure all injured victims receive prompt medical care. Moreover, Shah asked the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) to submit a list of all dilapidated buildings in Karachi, stressing that identifying and securing such structures was an urgent priority.

“Protecting human life is our top priority,” he added, warning that negligence would not be tolerated.

Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori also issued a statement urging a “swift and coordinated” rescue operation and called for full medical and logistical support to be provided to the victims and their families.

Chronic issue in Pakistan’s urban centers

Roof and building collapses are a tragically common occurrence across Pakistan, where weak enforcement of construction regulations, substandard building materials, and aging infrastructure routinely put lives at risk.

Karachi, home to over 20 million people, is particularly vulnerable due to illegal construction, overcrowding, and a widespread disregard for safety codes and zoning laws.

With additional input from AFP