A tragic incident took place in Rahim Yar Khan this morning where beneficiaries of the Benazir Income Support Programme, along with other women, were present at the payment centre of a private bank. According to initial reports, six women have died so far while several others have been injured due to the collapse of the roof of the shop.
Chairperson Benazir Income Support Programme, Senator Rubina Khalid, has expressed deep sorrow over this tragic incident. *On the instructions of the President of Pakistan, Mr. Asif Ali Zardari, Chairperson BISP Senator Rubina Khalid has immediately departed for Rahim Yar Khan to visit the site, assess the situation, and express solidarity with the affected families.*
On the directions of the Chairperson BISP, a high-level committee from the headquarters has also immediately departed for Rahim Yar Khan to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the incident, determine those responsible, and submit a detailed report within 24 hours.
*In view of possible negligence in the incident, a notice has been issued to the relevant partner bank, while a heavy fine is also being imposed. BISP will provide financial assistance of Rs. 1 million to the families of the deceased women and Rs. 300,000 to the injured women, and these payments will be completed by tomorrow.*
*Chairperson Senator Rubina Khalid stated that a transparent investigation will be conducted into this unfortunate incident and strict legal action will be taken against the representatives of the relevant partner bank. She further assured that all possible support will be provided to the affected families.*
