KMC Takes Bold Stance Against Illegal High-Rise Constructions in Katchi Abadies

By: Aziz Khatri

Karachi: The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) has launched a robust initiative aimed at tackling illegal and unauthorized constructions, particularly high-rise buildings, in Katchi Abadies. This decisive action falls squarely within the KMC's jurisdiction and responds to rising concerns about the safety and legality of such developments.

In a formal statement from the Office of the Senior Director Katchi Abadies, KMC officials highlighted the alarming increase of multi-storey buildings being erected without approved building plans from the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA). This trend not only flouts existing byelaws but also poses severe risks to public safety and the structural stability of these urban developments.

The KMC has underscored that these unauthorized constructions are not merely legal infractions— they represent a tangible danger to residents. Left unchecked, such buildings could lead to catastrophic incidents. The Katchi Abadies Department clarified that their role is limited to regularizing land possession as per approved Layout Plans (LOP) established by KMC Council Resolutions. The responsibility of approving building plans rests entirely with the SBCA.

This initiative aligns with the broader policy of the Sindh Government, which seeks to implement a consistent crackdown on illegal constructions and hazardous buildings throughout the province. The KMC stresses that protecting the lives, rights, and safety of residents in Katchi Abadies is paramount and that all future developments must adhere to legal frameworks.

To avert any potential disasters and uphold public safety, KMC has formally called on the SBCA to take swift and strict measures against these unlawful structures. All relevant officials have been urged to enforce building regulations and curb the rise of unauthorized high-rise projects in these vulnerable neighborhoods.

The communication detailing this initiative has also been disseminated to key stakeholders, including the Commissioner of Karachi, Chairman of the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Sindh, and the Secretary to the Mayor of Karachi, to ensure timely action and follow-up.

In a show of commitment, the KMC has pledged to fully support this crackdown through ongoing cooperation with the relevant authorities. This collaborative effort is aimed at safeguarding the city’s low-income settlements against the threats posed by unsafe and unregulated construction.