Karachi: The city’s civic authorities are set to launch a comprehensive anti-encroachment operation today (Thursday), focusing on 30 major roads identified by the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) and Town Municipal Corporations (TMCs), according to a report from October 17.
As per details, these encroachments, particularly in key commercial areas like the South Business District, have forced pedestrians to walk on the roads, contributing to traffic congestion and frequent disruptions. Additionally, the operation will address unregulated parking, as several permissions for private parking lots on public roads and sidewalks have exacerbated the city’s traffic problems. The cancellation of these permissions aims to ease traffic flow and reclaim public spaces for pedestrians.
Sindh Local Government Minister Saeed Ghani, who chaired a meeting with KMC and town municipal commissioners, emphasized the importance of rescinding all No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) issued for placing generators and storing construction materials on public roads. He confirmed that the first phase of the anti-encroachment operation will focus on clearing the 30 identified main roads.
During the meeting, authorities also discussed various urban management issues, including waste management, infrastructure damage linked to drug abuse, and the impact of anti-social elements on public spaces. Reports from town municipal commissioners have been submitted, detailing the roads where the operation will commence.
This latest initiative follows the Chief Minister’s ongoing efforts to tackle the widespread problem of encroachments and illegal parking across Karachi. A dedicated task force has been established to oversee the anti-encroachment operations as part of a broader plan to alleviate traffic issues and enhance urban living conditions.
Earlier, on July 12, local authorities were instructed to clear encroachments from public spaces such as footpaths, green belts, and walkways, which have long been a source of inconvenience for the public. The Chief Minister’s office has expressed a strong commitment to resolving these long-standing issues in the city.
Furthermore, the local government minister has directed town administrations to submit detailed reports within 24 hours regarding the income generated from road-cutting permissions, temporary NOCs, and charged parking zones within their jurisdictions. These reports are expected to provide a comprehensive overview of these permissions, aiding in future urban planning and infrastructure development.
