KARACHI: Pasban Democratic Party Chairman Altaf Shakoor has raised concerns over recent amendments by the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) that permit commercial activities in residential areas, asserting that these changes further deteriorate Karachi’s liveability.
Speaking outside the Sindh High Court, where Acting Chief Justice Mohammad Abdur Rehman presided over a constitutional petition hearing, Shakoor highlighted the city’s existing lack of essential services such as electricity, water, public transport, education, healthcare, and law enforcement. He argued that the commercialization of residential streets will exacerbate these deficiencies.
Shakoor revealed that the PDP has legally challenged the SBCA’s amendments, expressing hope that the Sindh High Court will deliver justice. He criticized the Sindh government and SBCA for prioritizing commercial interests over citizens’ welfare, transforming Karachi into what he described as an “unlivable mess.”
During the court proceedings, Khuram Lakhani, Shakoor’s lawyer, reported that the SBCA’s legal representatives submitted their memo of appearance, and the hearing was adjourned for three weeks. The SBCA is expected to present their response in the forthcoming session. Lakhani emphasized the PDP’s commitment to defending citizens’ rights.
The contentious amendment, issued on March 13, 2025, has faced opposition, particularly from residents of Adamjee Nagar Cooperative Housing Society. Shakoor, a resident of the area, contends that the amendment exceeds statutory authority and disrupts the community’s peaceful environment.
Shakoor’s petition calls for the amendment to be declared void and for the restoration of regulations as per the 2002 Karachi Building and Town Planning regulation.