A powerful earthquake rattled Karachi in the early hours of Tuesday, leading to visible cracks in a residential building in Lyari and triggering a large-scale emergency response. The incident has also sparked serious allegations from residents about a potential land grab scheme.
Earthquake Strikes, Cracks Appear
A 5.2-magnitude earthquake was recorded at 12:58 am on Tuesday, with its epicenter located approximately 87 kilometers northwest of Karachi. Tremors were felt across various parts of the metropolis, causing widespread alarm among citizens.
In the Naya Abad Liaquat Colony area of Lyari, the shaking resulted in immediate structural damage to a building known as Baba Arcade. Cracks appeared in the structure, prompting terrified residents to evacuate their homes and gather in open spaces for safety.
Emergency Response and Conflicting Claims
Alerted by calls to the emergency helpline 115, the Edhi Foundation swiftly mobilized its teams. A significant contingent of emergency services arrived at the scene, including Edhi ambulances and volunteers, a heavy police presence, the fire brigade, and Rescue 1122 personnel.
After conducting an initial inspection, officials advised citizens to stay clear of the building due to potential collapse risks. The news spread rapidly, with media teams descending on the location and reports circulating on TV channels and social media.
However, a resident of Baba Arcade presented a contradictory account. The individual claimed that while the earthquake shocks were felt, the building sustained no actual damage and people were still living there. The resident made a startling allegation, accusing a "building mafia" of deliberately circulating rumors about the property's dilapidated condition in an attempt to seize it.
Authorities Monitor and Historical Context
Local authorities are closely monitoring the volatile situation and have urged all residents in the area to remain vigilant. The incident has heightened concerns about building safety in older neighborhoods of Karachi, especially during seismic events.
This is not the first time recent tremors have caused concern in the city. In October 2025, a mild earthquake was felt in parts of Karachi, including Malir, though no casualties or infrastructural damage were reported on that occasion. The latest event underscores the persistent seismic risk to Pakistan's largest city.
