Efforts by the fire brigade to control the blaze were hindered by a lack of adequate facilities, leading to a significant delay in bringing the fire under control. By the time the flames were subdued, the entire structure, including shops on the ground floor and flats on the upper levels, had been reduced to ashes.

The aftermath of the fire left families in tears as they witnessed their flats and shops, along with personal belongings, dowries, and hard-earned savings, all turned to rubble. Dreams were shattered, and the next day saw families staring helplessly at their gutted residences, pondering where to go next.

A woman, with tears in her eyes, expressed the harsh reality that Karachi is an orphan city with no responsible caretaker. She questioned whether leaving their homes would guarantee a safe return and, if they did return, whether their homes would be secure.

Highlighting the challenges faced by residents, she emphasized that while electricity and gas bills are paid in full, the absence of gas infrastructure forces them to rely on cylinders for cooking. The tragic incident occurred due to a cylinder explosion, leaving the residents pondering who would take responsibility for this catastrophe.

In response to the incident, the Chief Minister of Sindh has ordered an inquiry, promising that those responsible will be identified and subjected to appropriate legal consequences. Simultaneously, efforts will be made to compensate the affected residents and shopkeepers for their losses.

The Chief Minister also acknowledged the criminal negligence of the Karachi Building Control Authority (KBCA) for not enforcing building codes. He stressed that if proper building codes had been followed, the loss of three lives, 74 apartments, and 130 shops could have been averted.

Examining the broader issue, it appears that violations of building codes are not limited to older structures, as new constructions also neglect to adhere to safety standards. The prevailing “system” overlooks building codes, and there is a pressing need to reassess safety measures and enforcement mechanisms.

The recent incident follows a similar tragedy in Gulistan-e-Jauhar, Karachi, where a fire claimed 11 lives in RJ Mall. The police have arrested five individuals, including the owner of a call center, for their alleged involvement in illegal activities leading to the incident.

Questions arise regarding how a call center operating illegally could still be held accountable for building code violations. It seems as if the police may have arrested employees merely to shift blame or extract financial penalties, leaving the real culprits untouched.

As investigations continue, uncertainty looms over when and if compensation will be provided to the victims, adding to the frustration of those affected. The recurring theme of building code violations prompts concerns about the efficacy of current inspection and regulatory systems.

Reflecting on the governance model of Hazrat Umar (RA), who prioritized justice and accountability, it is evident that our current leaders often speak of an Islamic governance model but fall short in its implementation. It raises questions about when our rulers will instill the principles of justice and accountability in our system, ensuring the well-being of their subjects.

The recent tragedies underscore the need for a comprehensive review of safety protocols, building codes, and their strict enforcement to prevent further loss of life and property. Until then, Karachi’s residents and business owners remain caught in a cycle of despair, grappling with the aftermath of preventable disasters.