Karachi (HRNW)- The Assistant Commissioner Garden South, Karachi, has informed the Deputy Commissioner of District South that several historic and heritage-listed buildings in the Garden Sub-Division were allegedly illegally demolished, partially damaged, or attempts were made to demolish them during the past 15 days.
The official direction calls for an immediate inquiry and on-site inspection of the buildings and plots concerned. These include Plot No. HV-1/56, HV-2/80, RS-1/126, HV-2/62/1/2, RS-4/52 and RS-1/129.
The Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA), Heritage and Culture Department, and relevant police authorities have been directed to immediately prevent any illegal demolition or alteration of historic or heritage buildings, identify those responsible, and initiate legal action in accordance with the law.
It has further been recommended that a clear and immediate action plan be developed to protect buildings declared “Heritage Under Consideration” by the Heritage Department, ensuring that they remain protected from further damage until the relevant legal proceedings are completed.
The Assistant Commissioner Garden South has also recommended a high-level inquiry into the recent demolition incidents to determine why the concerned departments allegedly failed to prevent the illegal activities, intervene in time, or take legal action against those responsible.
The Director General of the Sindh Building Control Authority, Director General of the Department of Heritage, Culture, Tourism, Antiquities and Archives, and the relevant senior police officer have been directed to take immediate notice of the matter and submit comprehensive information and reports.
The authorities have also been urged to ensure effective coordination, monitoring and timely legal action for the protection of Karachi’s historic and cultural buildings, preventing further irreparable damage to the city’s heritage.
The official direction states: “The matter is extremely important. The concerned departments should immediately conduct an inquiry and submit a report, stop illegal demolition, and take action against those responsible in accordance with the law.”
Human Angle
Karachi’s historic buildings are an important part of the city’s identity, cultural history and collective memory. The illegal demolition of such structures not only destroys architectural heritage but can also deprive future generations of an important connection to the city’s history.
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Disclaimer: This report has been prepared on the basis of the official information provided. Allegations regarding illegal demolition and the responsibility of relevant authorities remain subject to official inquiry and legal determination.
