FPCCI to move review petition in demolition of illegal constructions

FPCCI to move review petition in demolition of illegal constructions

KARACHI: The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) has announced its decision to file a review petition before the Supreme Court of Pakistan (SCP) concerning the demolition of illegal and unauthorized constructions in Karachi.

The move comes in response to the recent directive from the Supreme Court to restore the city according to its original master plan.

Addressing a press conference, Daro Khan Achakzai, President of FPCCI, expressed the organization’s respect for the Supreme Court’s order but raised concerns about the potential challenges that may arise in restoring the city to its original master plan. He emphasized the significant role Karachi plays in the national economy, contributing 20 percent to the overall economy and 30 percent to total industrial production.

“While we do not support any illegal construction,” Daro Khan Achakzai said, “it is crucial to review the master plan of the city to ensure that the restoration process does not create difficulties for the citizens.” He also called for accountability, stating that those who allowed illegal constructions should be penalized.

The FPCCI President highlighted specific issues such as encroachments on parks and China cutting that need immediate attention and demolition. China cutting refers to the unauthorized division of plots, often resulting in irregular and illegal constructions.

Mirza Ikhtiar Baig, present at the press conference, urged both the federal and provincial governments to file a review petition before February 3. He emphasized the urgency of the situation, pointing out that approximately 930 buildings had been constructed illegally in the past 15 years.

Mohsin Sekhani, Patron In Chief of the Association of Builders and Developers (ABAD), echoed the concerns raised by FPCCI. He noted that the Supreme Court had ordered the removal of encroachments from parks and main sewerage lines, leading the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) to issue notices to all buildings in the city.

The decision to file a review petition reflects the business community’s apprehensions about the potential economic impact of demolishing illegal constructions. While acknowledging the need to address unauthorized structures, the FPCCI seeks a balanced approach that considers the economic implications and challenges faced by citizens.

As discussions unfold between the business community and relevant authorities, the fate of Karachi’s skyline hangs in the balance, with the review petition expected to shed light on the feasibility and potential alternatives to the Supreme Court’s directive.