Why is Karachi vulnerable to earthquakes?

Karachi is situated near major tectonic plate boundaries and multiple fault lines, increasing its susceptibility to seismic activity.

What is causing buildings in Karachi to become unstable?

Unregulated construction, excessive groundwater extraction leading to land subsidence, and weak building code enforcement are destabilizing buildings.

What are experts recommending to improve Karachi's safety?

Experts recommend enforcing geotechnical building codes, managing subsidence, improving urban planning, and restricting unregulated groundwater extraction.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Karachi Trembles: Buildings at Risk from Quakes & Subsidence

Karachi Trembles: Buildings at Risk from Quakes & Subsidence

18 Dec

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Summary

Karachi faces increasing earthquake frequency, raising concerns.
Unregulated construction and groundwater pumping destabilize buildings.
Experts warn of potential devastation from even moderate tremors.

Karachi Trembles: Buildings at Risk from Quakes & Subsidence

Karachi, Pakistan's largest city, is facing heightened seismic activity, with numerous mild earthquakes recorded in recent months. Experts express concern over the frequency of these tremors, noting that Karachi's location near major tectonic plates and fault lines makes it prone to seismic events. The city's vulnerability is exacerbated by issues of unregulated construction and excessive groundwater extraction, leading to land subsidence.

These factors combined weaken building structures, making them susceptible to collapse even from moderate earthquakes. A 2023 study indicated subsidence rates of up to 17 mm annually in key areas. The city's older buildings and those constructed on weak soil foundations are particularly at risk. Experts emphasize that a repeat of a major historical earthquake could devastate large parts of coastal Karachi.