In a devastating incident in Rahim Yar Khan, Punjab, at least eight women lost their lives while more than 80 others sustained injuries when the roof of a shop gave way during the distribution of Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) cash payments. The tragedy unfolded in Chak 123P as a large crowd of women had gathered to receive their government welfare funds ahead of the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations.
District Police Officer Irfan Samo provided details about the accident, explaining that the roof collapsed under the immense pressure of the crowd. Over 100 women were reportedly present at the site, with some standing on the roof itself at the direction of the shopkeeper, while others remained inside the premises. This dangerous arrangement ultimately led to the structural failure, causing the roof to cave in suddenly.
Rescue teams and police personnel responded swiftly, working tirelessly to extract those trapped beneath the debris. The injured were immediately transported to Sheikh Zayed Hospital in Rahim Yar Khan, where medical staff reported that many victims suffered severe head injuries, broken limbs, and fractures. Several patients remain in critical condition, highlighting the gravity of the incident.
Authorities have registered a formal case at the Airport Police Station, naming five individuals in connection with the mishap, including the private retailer’s device agent. The DPO emphasized that the device agent has been held accountable for the accident, underscoring the need for thorough investigations to determine the full extent of negligence involved.
The Benazir Income Support Programme, which primarily targets low-income families and predominantly benefits women, distributes quarterly cash payments to help alleviate poverty. This latest calamity draws attention to the ongoing challenges faced during aid disbursement, particularly the risks posed by overcrowding at distribution points. Such incidents are unfortunately not uncommon during Ramadan, when government agencies, charitable organizations, and businesses ramp up efforts to provide food and cash assistance to vulnerable populations.
Similar tragedies have occurred in the past, including a fatal stampede in Karachi in 2023, where 11 women and children lost their lives as hundreds rushed to collect aid. These recurring events highlight the urgent need for improved safety protocols and crowd control measures to prevent further loss of life during such critical times.
In response to the Rahim Yar Khan tragedy, President Asif Ali Zardari expressed his deep sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. He instructed authorities to ensure that the injured receive the highest standard of medical care and called for the swift completion of rescue operations. The President also urged the Sindh government to rigorously enforce building safety regulations, conduct thorough inspections of gas cylinder usage, and carry out a comprehensive investigation to avoid similar disasters in the future.
Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif conveyed profound grief over the loss of lives in this unfortunate event. She offered her sympathies to the bereaved families and directed all relevant departments to provide the best possible medical treatment to the injured. The Chief Minister also requested an immediate report from the Deputy Commissioner to assess the situation and recommend preventive measures.
Senator Rubina Khalid, Chairperson of BISP, voiced her serious concern regarding the incident, emphasizing that the women beneficiaries had placed their trust in the programme as a source of support and protection. She called for urgent steps to ensure the safety and dignity of those relying on government welfare schemes, stressing that such tragedies must not be repeated.
