Karach: The local government (LG) department on Thursday (August 24) enforced a blanket ban on approval of the maps of all types of housing projects, buildings and commercial plazas across Sindh, according to news sources.
It was highlighted that this drastic step has been taken in an attempt to control the mushrooming of illegal construction. This ban has been implemented on the directives of Local Government Minister Mubin Jumani, who instructed the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) to take immediate action against the ‘illegal construction system’ prevalent in the province.
The ban on the approval of maps applies to the SBCA and other development authorities that fall within the administrative control of the local government department. Moreover, sources have revealed that a ban has also been put in place on the issuance of any type of building plans and layouts. This directive has been communicated to several civic and development bodies, including the Karachi Development Authority, Malir Development Authority, and Lyari Development Authority.
This restriction on granting permits for maps, building plans, and layouts will also apply to entities like the Hyderabad Development Authority, Sehwan Development Authority, and the Town Planning Department.
The sources have shared that this ban is temporary and mainly pertains to shaping future policies. The supervisory provincial authorities will subsequently develop a clear policy on this matter. In the meantime, the Minister for Local Government highlighted the need for entities like the Water Board and Karachi Development Authority (KDA) to focus their resources solely on providing public amenities and relief measures. Directing the Director General of KDA, Pervez Ahmed Baloch, the minister encouraged efforts to enhance available resources and restore the city’s aesthetics.
Iqra holds BS in International Relations and is passionate about writing engaging content on trending real estate topics. When not working, she is either spending time with family, shopping, or discussing shows & movies.
