Roof Collapse at Rahim Yar Khan Kills 7 Women, Injures 75 During BISP Payment

A roof collapse at a retail shop in Rahim Yar Khan's Chak 123-P Tibba area killed seven women and injured more than 75 on Monday during the distribution of Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) payments, according to Dawn reports. The incident occurred around 10:39 a.m. as over 200 women had gathered to collect their cash aid.

Authorities confirmed the collapse was due to substandard building materials used in the shop’s roof. Immediate rescue operations were launched, with local officials and BISP chairperson Rubina Khalid announcing compensation for the victims and a formal investigation into the safety failings.

Rubina Khalid clarified that while BISP manages the program, the actual cash disbursement was outsourced to banks and not handled directly by BISP. She also indicated that measures would be taken against responsible parties and suggested a shift toward digital payment methods to prevent similar incidents in the future.

President Asif Ali Zardari expressed condolences and pledged government support for the families of those killed and injured. The tragedy has prompted renewed calls by officials and civil society for safer, more efficient distribution channels for public aid, especially given the large crowds these events attract.

Going forward, the government’s plan to implement digital payments within BISP will be closely watched, as this event highlights the risks posed by cash gatherings and structural negligence at aid distribution sites. The official investigation’s findings will be crucial to ensuring accountability and enhancing safety protocols for vulnerable populations receiving public support.