Karachi: The Sindh High Court has taken a significant step by issuing notices to the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) and other concerned parties following a petition from Altaf Shakoor, Chairman of the Pasban Democratic Party (PDP). The petition challenges a recent amendment in building rules that could potentially commercialize residential areas.

The division bench, led by acting Chief Justice Muhammad Junaid Ghaffar and Justice Muhammad Abdur Rehman, has acknowledged the constitutional petition and scheduled a hearing for April 22. The PDP’s legal representative, Khuram Lakhani, presented the case before the court.

Altaf Shakoor’s petition specifically targets the SBCA’s amendment, arguing that it allows for the commercialization of residential areas, such as the Adamjee Nagar Cooperative Housing Society, where he resides. The petition lists multiple respondents, including the Sindh Government and various planning authorities.

The amendment in question, issued on March 13, 2025, is alleged to overstep legal boundaries, altering the Karachi Building and Town Planning regulation of 2002. Shakoor expressed concerns that the change would disrupt the residential area’s tranquility, leading to increased noise, traffic, and a loss of privacy for residents.

Furthermore, the petition argues that the amendment lacks clear planning or benefits for residents. It claims the SBCA exceeded its authority by altering Karachi’s master plan without adhering to procedural requirements, potentially leading to corruption and bribery.

The petitioner seeks a court declaration that the amendment is void and requests a return to the original regulations as per the 2002 framework. The case highlights ongoing tensions between development and community preservation in Karachi’s urban landscape.