Karachi's Heritage Buildings Under Threat Amid Safety Concerns

In the bustling city of Karachi, a clash between modern development and historical preservation is unfolding. The Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) has recently issued notices to vacate over 700 buildings, many of which are remnants of the pre-independence era. These heritage buildings serve as a vital link to the city’s rich cultural past, and their potential demolition raises concerns among locals and tourists alike about the loss of Karachi's intrinsic authenticity.

Shakeel Dogar, the spokesperson for the SBCA, stated that 448 out of the 722 buildings identified as unsafe are located in the South District, which includes areas like Saddar, Garden, and Burns Road. He emphasized that these buildings will be demolished once they are vacated, but assured that the SBCA does not demolish heritage buildings without prior permission from the Sindh Culture Department. Abdul Fattah Sheikh, the Director General of the Sindh Culture Department, confirmed that 99 heritage buildings have been declared dilapidated, but their demolition is pending further review by a Technical Committee.

Opponents of the demolition, including renowned urban planner Arif Hassan, argue that many of these buildings can be preserved. He urged for a careful review of the SBCA's list of unsafe buildings, stressing that the city’s cultural heritage should not be destroyed unnecessarily. Architect Yasmeen Lari echoed this sentiment, pointing out that many of the buildings are still structurally sound. She highlighted that some businessmen may have vested interests in replacing these heritage sites with multi-storied buildings, which could lead to the unnecessary loss of Karachi's historical architecture.

Statistics support Lari's claims, as records show that most building collapses in Karachi are linked to illegal construction or the use of substandard materials, rather than the heritage buildings themselves. For instance, in 2019, a four-storey building collapsed due to illegal construction, resulting in 25 fatalities. Similarly, in 2020, nine building collapses led to at least 50 deaths. A recent incident in May involved a British-era building, which collapsed due to a lack of timely repairs.

The decision to demolish heritage buildings in Karachi has sparked a significant debate about the preservation of the city’s cultural identity. While safety is paramount, it is crucial to consider the historical value of these structures. The voices of architects and urban planners advocating for preservation highlight the need for a balanced approach that safeguards Karachi's rich heritage while ensuring the safety of its residents. As the situation unfolds, it remains essential for the authorities to engage with the community and experts to find solutions that honor both the past and the future of this vibrant city.