APPALLNG firefighting facilities, lax regulations and an uncaring provincial government fan the flames of tragedy in Karachi. At least 15 people, including women and children, were killed and another 18 injured when a gas explosion ripped through a multistorey building in the Soldier Bazaar area. This tragedy reflects the many dangers citizens grapple with in daily life. Residents say there had been no gas in the locality for several days; the supply surged without warning on the fateful night. Meanwhile, rescue officials declared the building ‘not legal’. The customary pattern of condolences, inquiry orders and safety directives followed. Sadly, these inquiries seldom lead to trials, while restoration attempts feature the same faults that triggered the previous disaster. Monitoring mechanisms are immediately required to ensure regular maintenance as well as repairs for old buildings. Demolition drives, a convenient shortcut, often cost the city its heritage.

There is no shortage of eerie reminders of how such negligence threatens life and property in the city. Among them is one of the country’s worst industrial disasters — the 2012 Baldia factory blaze. Then there is the charred skeleton of Gul Plaza in the heart of Karachi. What exacerbates matters is that the mushroom growth of skyscrapers poses added hazards because most builders skip fire and safety rules in construction. In addition, the city’s chief fire officer has stated that despite improvements, the system remains on ventilator — a city of over 20m has only 28 fire stations. Regulatory bodies responsible for enforcing building and fire laws have been rendered structurally feeble due to political interference and corruption that allows illegal modifications. Karachi’s disaster preparedness must match international standards. Its current state leaves denizens exposed to large-scale emergencies with personal courage as their sole protective gear. When political commitment to safety fails, accountability goes up in smoke.

Published in Dawn, February 21st, 2026