Islamabad, 15, May, 2025: In a recent development, the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) has officially retracted its earlier notification that permitted commercial activities on residential plots a move that came during a court hearing on multiple petitions challenging the regulation.
Court Proceedings and SBCA’s Response
During the hearing of the petitions, the Director General of the Sindh Building Control Authority submitted a written reply to the court, confirming that the authority had decided to withdraw the notification issued on March 13, 2025.
The court acknowledged this withdrawal and subsequently dismissed the petitions as the primary grievance had been addressed.
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The petitions had been filed by Jamaat-e-Islami, represented by Opposition Leader in the City Council Saifuddin Advocate, alongside nine town chairmen.
They argued that the SBCA had unlawfully altered the Karachi Building and Town Planning Regulations, particularly changing the interpretation and intended use of relief plots.
Disputed Amendment on Relief Plots
According to the petitioners, the revised regulation had significantly altered the original definition of relief plots designated lands that, under earlier rules, were restricted to specific community-focused uses.
The amendment not only removed healthcare provision from the list of permitted functions but also opened the door for residential land to be repurposed for educational, recreational, or health-related purposes without proper checks.
Critically, the revision eliminated the public objection mechanism, which previously allowed citizens to raise concerns or contest such land use changes.
The petitioners had warned that this could lead to the unchecked commercialization of neighbourhoods, undermining urban planning principles and disrupting the residential nature of communities.
SBCA Reverses Course Amid Legal Pressure
Following public backlash and legal scrutiny, the SBCA has now reversed its stance, reassuring both the court and petitioners that the notification is no longer in effect.
This step has been welcomed by civic bodies and rights groups who view it as a positive outcome for safeguarding Karachi’s residential zoning integrity.
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With the Sindh Building Control Authority stepping back from its earlier decision, urban planning regulations in Karachi may see renewed public and legal focus.
Stakeholders have emphasized the importance of maintaining transparent procedures and protecting residential areas from unchecked commercial expansion.
