Tragic roof collapse kills 7 women, dozens injure at BISP payment point

RAHIM YAR KHAN: At least seven women were killed and dozens injured on Monday when the roof of a shop collapsed in Chak 123-P Tibba, Rahim Yar Khan, officials said.

The incident occurred at 10:39am as women gathered at a grocery store functioning as a payment point for the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP). Rescue 1122 confirmed 75 people sustained injuries in the mishap.

Divisional Commissioner Musarrat Jabeen said an investigation had been launched and strict legal action would be taken if negligence was found to be the cause of the collapse. An investigation committee, led by the Additional Deputy Commissioner (General), has been tasked to submit its findings within 24 hours.

BISP said the majority of the women present were beneficiaries receiving payments from a private bank partner, and announced compensation of Rs1 million for families of the deceased and Rs300,000 for injured women. The organisation said fines would also be imposed on the bank, and a transparent investigation would follow.

BISP Chairperson Rubina Khalid, acting on the directives of President Asif Ali Zardari, visited the site to assess the situation. The president expressed “deep sorrow” over the tragedy, extended condolences to the bereaved families, and prayed for the recovery of the injured.

According to district officials, more than 200 people were present when the roof, reportedly made of substandard materials, collapsed under the load. Talha Bin Amman, BISP Rahim Yar Khan Director, said most women were at the shop in connection with upcoming Eid preparations.