Karachi: Sindh Local Government Secretary Roshan Sheikh has allowed the Association of Builders and Developers (ABAD) to constitute a task force in order to prevent the growth of mushroom constructions in the city, a news source reported. Further, he said that the vice-chairman of the proposed body should be an ABAD representative.
Secretary Roshan, ABAD Chairman Mohsin Shiekhani and Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) Director General (DG), during a meeting, stated that the provincial government had initiated the development of the city’s ‘Master Plan 2047’. They also requested the builders and developers present at the occasion to assist the local government in the implementation of this master plan.
Previously, the provincial executive had expressed its intention to join forces with private developers in the former’s bid to stop illegal construction practices in the metropolis.
The meeting was also informed that the launch of a web portal for e-registration of property was in the works, along with the automation process for stamp duty collection. Secretary Roshan mentioned that these steps would eliminate the role of the Sub-Registrar, and will reduce corrupt practices.
He revealed that Pakistan faced an annual housing shortfall of 0.35 million units; adding that this backlog has resulted in the mushroom growth of katchi abadis (slums) that presently occupy 54% of the residential spaces in Karachi.
In response, the ABAD chairman referred to the growth of these slums as the biggest issue facing the city; adding that failure to address these concerns would lead to disastrous consequences. He mentioned that the ABAD members required 18 NOCs from the SBCA and other authorities for commencing with its constructional pursuits. The whole approval-issuance process takes about 18 to 24 months, he added. He also stated that construction materials account for 30% of the total waste in Karachi.
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