Karachi: Illegal construction activities in the city’s Surjani Town area are reportedly on the rise, with allegations that the entire operation is being conducted under the supervision of senior officials of the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA). According to sources, at least 70 construction projects are ongoing in the area, violating SBCA-approved plans, residential regulations, and urban safety laws.
Sources claim that the system is directly overseen by:
•Shahzad Siyal, Director West, SBCA
•Masroor Nabi, Deputy Director, SBCA
•Ameer Kareem, Assistant Director, SBCA
It is further alleged that weekly recoveries amounting to millions of rupees are being collected from these illegal constructions.
Experts and local residents say that illegal construction in Surjani Town has now become an open business rather than a criminal activity. Each floor, additional portion, and unauthorized work is reportedly assigned a separate rate, while no notices, seals, or demolition operations are being carried out.
Sources add that wherever these officials have been posted previously, similar systems of illegal construction emerged, indicating that changing postings or locations has not disrupted the modus operandi.
Perhaps the most shocking aspect is that SBCA Director General, Mazamil Hussain Halipoto, remains silent despite being aware of the issue. Similarly, Sindh’s Minister for Local Government, Nasir Hussain Shah, and Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah have been informed, yet no tangible action has been taken.
Another explosive revelation from sources indicates that the names of the DG SBCA and the Local Government Minister are being misused to collect money from builders and plot owners.
Urban planning experts warn that if this situation is not addressed promptly, illegal constructions could spread across Karachi, posing risks to human lives, urban planning, and the rule of law.
Local residents and citizens are demanding:
•An immediate joint inquiry
•Swift demolition of illegal structures
•Strict action against the officials involved
