Karachi: A heartbreaking accident claimed the life of a 10-year-old boy, Abdul Karim Kamran, in Karachi’s Gulistan-i-Jauhar. The incident occurred on Wednesday night in block 19 of a residential apartment, leaving the community in shock.
How the Tragedy Unfolded
According to police and rescue officials, the accident happened when two boys were playing near the elevator in the building. A young man entered the lift at the ground floor and pressed the button to ascend to the fifth floor. As the lift began to move, the two boys rushed to stop it.
One boy managed to enter the lift safely, but Abdul Karim Kamran tragically became trapped in the elevator shaft. The moving lift dragged him up to the fifth floor, resulting in his death on the spot.
Rescue Efforts
The Urban Search and Rescue Team quickly responded to the scene after receiving information about the incident. Accompanied by an ambulance and a disaster response vehicle, they used specialized equipment to cut open the lift and recover the boy’s body.
The victim’s body was shifted to the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre for necessary legal formalities.
Police and Family Response
Faisal Gul Khawaja, the Station House Officer of Sharea Faisal police station, stated that the death was accidental. The victim’s family informed the police that they did not wish to pursue legal action.
Recurring Elevator Accidents
This tragedy is not an isolated incident. Elevator accidents have been a recurring issue in Pakistan, raising concerns about safety standards in buildings.
In August, a restaurant elevator in Hafizabad, Lahore, collapsed, injuring a civil judge and his wife. The authorities sealed the restaurant following the accident.
Similarly, in March, a laborer lost his life, and two others were injured when a building’s lift collapsed during repairs in Gulberg Greens, Islamabad.
The Need for Better Elevator Safety
These incidents highlight the urgent need for stricter safety regulations for elevators in Pakistan. Proper maintenance, regular inspections, and adherence to international safety standards are essential to prevent such tragedies. Building owners and management companies must prioritize elevator safety to ensure the well-being of residents and visitors.
Additionally, awareness campaigns about the dangers of tampering with or misusing elevators could help prevent accidents. Parents should educate their children about elevator safety to minimize risks.
A Community in Mourning
The tragic death of Abdul Karim Kamran has left his family and the community in mourning. Such incidents remind us of the fragility of life and the importance of vigilance when it comes to safety in our surroundings.
Conclusion
As Karachi reels from this loss, it is crucial for authorities and building management to take proactive steps to ensure the safety of elevators. Lives depend on proper maintenance and strict adherence to safety protocols. Abdul Karim Kamran’s tragic death should serve as a wake-up call to prevent similar incidents in the future.