Karachi (HRNW) — A constitutional bench of the Sindh High Court heard a petition challenging the alleged construction of commercial buildings in residential areas of Nazimabad.
During the hearing, Justice Adnan-ul-Karim Memon questioned the performance of the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA), observing that a complete mechanism exists to take action against illegal construction.
The judge questioned why the SBCA was not taking action despite having the necessary officers and staff.
Petitioner’s counsel Zahir Ahmed told the court that applications had been submitted to the SBCA against the alleged illegal constructions, but no effective action had been taken.
The lawyer said official records showed that some buildings had been sealed, but alleged that illegal construction work was continuing on the ground.
According to the petitioner’s counsel, “SBCA only carries out paperwork, while illegal construction is continuing rapidly.” He claimed that a total of 34 allegedly illegal commercial buildings were being constructed in residential areas.
Justice Adnan-ul-Karim Memon noted that the SBCA also has its own judicial mechanism and questioned how the Sindh High Court could order action against illegal construction when a statutory mechanism already exists.
The court directed the petitioner to approach the SBCA again and seek action through the relevant forum.
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Disclaimer:
This report is based on proceedings before the Sindh High Court and submissions made by the petitioner’s counsel. Allegations concerning illegal construction remain subject to determination by the competent authorities and courts.
