In a devastating incident in Rahim Yar Khan, Punjab, the roof of a shop gave way during the distribution of Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) cash payments, resulting in the deaths of at least eight women and injuries to more than 80 others. The tragedy unfolded in Chak 123P, where 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 of the accident, explaining that the roof collapsed under the immense pressure of the crowd. Over 100 women were present at the site, with some reportedly being directed by the shopkeeper to stand on the roof while others remained inside the premises. This unsafe practice contributed to the structural failure, leading to the catastrophic collapse.
Emergency response teams, including rescue workers and police personnel, rushed to the scene to extract those trapped beneath the debris. The injured were promptly transported to Sheikh Zayed Hospital in Rahim Yar Khan, where medical staff are treating numerous victims suffering from severe injuries such as head trauma, fractured limbs, and broken bones. Hospital officials have indicated that several patients remain in critical condition, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
Authorities have registered a formal case at the Airport Police Station naming the aid agency involved in the distribution. Five individuals, including the private retailer’s device agent responsible for the payout equipment, have been implicated in the investigation. The DPO confirmed that the device agent has been held accountable for negligence leading to the accident. This development underscores the need for stringent oversight and accountability in managing welfare disbursements.
The BISP is a vital social safety net program in Pakistan, providing quarterly cash assistance primarily to women from low-income households. This tragic event brings to light the recurring dangers associated with overcrowding at aid distribution centers, especially during Ramadan when demand surges. Similar incidents of crowd-related accidents and stampedes have occurred in the past, often resulting in loss of life and injuries.
For instance, in 2023, a stampede at a Karachi distribution center claimed the lives of 11 women and children as hundreds rushed to collect aid. Such patterns reveal systemic challenges in managing large crowds and ensuring the safety of vulnerable populations during government and charitable aid events.
In response to the Rahim Yar Khan tragedy, President Asif Ali Zardari expressed profound sorrow and extended his condolences to the families of the deceased. He directed authorities to provide the best possible medical care to the injured and to expedite rescue operations. Furthermore, he urged the Sindh government to enforce strict building regulations, conduct thorough safety inspections including gas cylinder checks, and carry out a comprehensive investigation to prevent future disasters.
Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif conveyed her deep grief over the incident and offered heartfelt sympathies to the affected families. She instructed relevant officials to ensure that the victims receive top-quality medical treatment and requested an immediate report from the Deputy Commissioner to assess the situation thoroughly.
Senator Rubina Khalid, Chairperson of BISP, also voiced serious concern regarding the accident. She emphasized that the women beneficiaries place immense trust in the program for their financial support and protection, making it imperative to uphold safety and transparency in all aspects of aid distribution.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to improve infrastructure, crowd management, and safety protocols at welfare distribution points across the country. As Eid approaches, authorities face mounting pressure to ensure that such fatal incidents do not recur, safeguarding the lives and dignity of Pakistan’s most vulnerable citizens.
