KARACHI:
Imagine a middle-class family spending years saving money to buy their first home. They finally find a builder who promises a beautiful apartment at an affordable price. They trust him and invest their savings. Everything seems perfect. But a few months later, they discover that the same apartment has been sold to someone else. Their dream suddenly turns into a nightmare.
Sadly, this is a growing concern in Karachi. Many people are attracted by flashy advertisements, attractive payment plans and promises of quick possession. But not every promise is real. Some dishonest builders sell the same property to multiple buyers, while others advertise projects without proper legal approvals. They take people’s money and disappear, leaving families helpless.
The worst part is that ordinary people suffer the most. For some, buying a house means spending their entire life’s savings. Others take loans or borrow money from relatives. When they become victims of fraud, they have nowhere to go. They visit police stations, contact lawyers and spend years fighting legal battles. Their money is stuck. Their future is uncertain.
But where are the authorities? How can such projects continue without proper checks? Departments like the Sindh Building Control Authority must take responsibility. Buyers should be able to verify property ownership and project approvals before making any payment. Builders involved in fraud must face strict legal action. There should also be a transparent system to protect people from these scams.
Owning a home should be a moment of happiness, not a source of stress and regret. People work hard for years to achieve this dream. They deserve honesty, not deception. The authorities must act before more innocent families lose their savings. After all, a home is not just four walls. It is someone’s dream, security and future.
Kazim Abbas
Karachi
