BISP distances itself from cash disbursement after deadly Rahim Yar Khan tragedy

RAHIM YAR KHAN: Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Programme, Rubina Khalid, on Tuesday said the programme was not responsible for cash disbursement, clarifying that the process had been outsourced to banks.

Her remarks came a day after a tragic roof collapse at a retail outlet in Tibba area of Rahim Yar Khan left at least seven women dead and more than 75 injured as they gathered to collect BISP payments.

Speaking during a visit to Sheikh Zayed Hospital, Khalid stated that BISP does not have a direct mechanism for distributing cash. “When you outsource something, the responsibility lies with the banks,” she said.

She termed it unfortunate that the welfare programme was being blamed while “those actually responsible” — including retailers and franchises — were not being questioned. She added that BISP had no direct link with these outlets, as they operate under arrangements with banks.

Khalid announced that fines would be imposed and a first information report (FIR) would be registered against individuals present at the site, vowing strict accountability. “We share the grief of the bereaved families. Those responsible will be punished,” she said.

Providing an update on the injured, she said most women with minor injuries had been discharged, while 17 remained under treatment, with one in critical condition.

She further announced compensation of Rs1 million for the families of the deceased and Rs300,000 for the injured, acknowledging that the financial aid could not compensate for the loss of lives but would offer some relief.

The BISP chairperson also revealed that the payment made on Monday was the last under the old system. From the next quarter, disbursements will shift to a digital wallet system aimed at improving transparency and ensuring timely payments with dignity.

The incident occurred at a designated BISP retailer in Chak 123-P Tibba, where over 200 women had gathered. Eyewitnesses said many were directed to wait on the first floor, which collapsed due to overcrowding and weak structural support, reportedly built with substandard materials.

Initial rescue efforts were carried out by local residents before emergency teams arrived, highlighting gaps in crowd management and safety measures at the site.