Five government officials have been suspended after a three-year-old child, Ibrahim, fell into an open manhole near the Nipa flyover in Karachi. The action came on the direct orders of the Sindh Chief Minister, who sought immediate accountability for the tragic loss.
The local government department issued a formal notification confirming the suspensions. It stated that the officers faced action due to negligence linked to the uncovered manhole.
Chief Minister Convenes Urgent Meeting
The chief minister chaired a high-level meeting soon after the tragedy. The session included provincial ministers, municipal officials, town administrators, and police authorities. During the meeting, he expressed deep grief over the child’s death and stressed that strict action was essential.
He noted that shifting blame between institutions was regrettable and ordered officials to focus on responsibility rather than excuses. Consequently, he directed the chief secretary to take swift disciplinary action.
Strong Displeasure Over Official Performance
According to attendees, the chief minister showed strong displeasure over the performance of the concerned departments. He stressed that the incident reflected a serious failure in basic municipal oversight. Therefore, he asked for immediate steps to ensure such negligence does not recur.
Authorities were instructed to initiate formal proceedings against those responsible. Additionally, he demanded detailed updates on corrective measures across the city’s municipal network.
List of Officials Removed From Duty
The suspended officers include several senior and mid-level administrators linked to municipal and utility services. The names listed in the official notification are:
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Imran Rajput, Senior Director Municipal Services, KMC
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Rashid Fayyaz, Assistant Engineer, TMC Gulshan-e-Iqbal
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Waqar Ahmed, Executive Engineer, Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation
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Amir Ali Shah, Assistant Commissioner Gulshan-e-Iqbal
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Salman Farsi, Mukhtiarkar Gulshan-e-Iqbal
Each officer faces suspension due to alleged negligence related to maintenance and oversight responsibilities in the area where the incident occurred.
Comprehensive Inquiry Ordered
A detailed investigation has also been initiated to establish individual responsibility. The inquiry will examine maintenance records, inspection reports, and administrative chains of command. The chief minister directed authorities to ensure that the probe remains transparent and is completed without delay.
The suspensions mark a significant administrative response to a heartbreaking incident. While the inquiry continues, the provincial leadership aims to reinforce accountability and prevent similar tragedies in Karachi. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
