KARACHI: The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) has begun a campaign targeting unauthorized and illegal constructions, especially multi-storey buildings within katchi abadis that fall under its jurisdiction.
A formal notice issued by the office of the senior director of katchi abadis expressed concern over the growing number of high-rise structures being built without approval from the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA).
These constructions not only violate building regulations but also endanger public safety.
The department clarified that while it can regularize land possession based on the approved Lay-Out Plan (LOP), only the SBCA holds the authority to approve construction plans.
This move follows the Sindh government’s broader policy of enforcing action against illegal and unsafe structures to avoid potential disasters.
The notification has also been shared with the Commissioner Karachi, the chairman of the Provincial Disaster Management Authority, the secretary to the mayor, and other relevant departments for coordinated action.
In a separate and tragic development, a 50-year-old man, Muhammad Afzal, took his own life by hanging himself at his home in Old Golimar. He was employed by the KMC.
According to his family, Afzal was dealing with drug addiction and left behind a son and four daughters. They said he went to the rooftop and ended his life. His body was moved to the Civil Hospital, but the family chose not to file any police report.
After the necessary legal procedures, they took custody of the body. Authorities are continuing their inquiry into the matter.