KARACHI (HRNW): The escalating issue of encroachments in the Korangi district has severely disrupted civic life, with residents and local laborers reporting that the situation is worsening daily due to a lack of permanent solutions.
Illegal occupations of roads and footpaths have intensified in several key areas, including Korangi No. 2.5, No. 4, 12000 Road, Bagh-e-Korangi, Mehran Town, Nasir Jump, Korangi Crossing, and Landhi 89. These encroachments have effectively choked the flow of traffic and restricted pedestrian movement.
Key Concerns Raised by the Public:
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Allegations of Organized Extortion: Local laborers and vendors claim they do not occupy these spaces by choice. They allege that their activities are carried out under the “supervision” of influential circles and relevant authorities. According to these workers, illegal payments—collected on daily, weekly, and monthly bases—are a mandatory requirement to operate on the streets.
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Failed Anti-Encroachment Drives: Residents pointed out that whenever the administration conducts an operation against encroachments, it proves to be temporary. Within hours or days of a cleanup drive, the stalls and illegal structures reappear, rendering the efforts futile.
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Impact on Emergency Services: The narrowing of main arteries due to illegal stalls has led to chronic traffic jams. Citizens expressed grave concern that ambulances and fire tenders often get stuck in these bottlenecks, risking lives during emergencies.
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Questions for Law Enforcement: Serious questions are being raised regarding the role of the Karachi Police and local administrative bodies, with many calling for an investigation into the alleged systemic complicity.
Demands for Immediate Action
The residents of Korangi have made an urgent appeal to the Commissioner of Karachi and the provincial administration. They are demanding:
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Permanent Removal: A shift from temporary “photo-op” raids to a permanent, sustainable policy for clearing public spaces.
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Transparency: An end to the alleged extortion cycle that fuels these illegal occupations.
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Accountability: Strict action against officials found to be facilitating encroachments for personal gain.
The community emphasizes that without transparent and consistent enforcement, the vision of a functional and accessible Karachi will remain out of reach.
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