Disturbing CCTV footage obtained by Aaj News has revealed critical warning signs just hours before a five-storey residential building collapsed in the Baghdadi area of Lyari, Karachi.

The footage shows the building’s structural columns (pillars) beginning to crack and break apart. Visible fractures can be seen forming, indicating a rapidly deteriorating condition. A few hours after these signs appeared, the entire building came crashing down, triggering panic and chaos in the neighbourhood.

The video also shows multiple rickshaws parked beneath the structure and residents beginning to flee after hearing the ominous creaking and cracking sounds coming from the weakened pillars. Eyewitnesses reported tremors and strange noises before the building gave way, but the collapse happened so swiftly that most residents had no time to escape.

The building housed nearly 20 residential units. Only a few occupants managed to get out in time, while others were trapped under the rubble.

The tragic incident has raised serious questions about the condition of the building and the performance of municipal authorities. The footage provides alarming evidence of neglect, as the dangerous condition of the building was visually evident well before the collapse.

Authorities are now facing mounting pressure to investigate the incident thoroughly and hold those responsible accountable.