Compensate the displaced

The desperate plea of Karachi’s displaced residents, as witnessed during the recent Ghar Bahali rally, shines a spotlight on the dire circumstances faced by those who have been forcibly evicted from their homes during clean-up operations. The affected residents, including women, children, the elderly and the disabled, have been left homeless, forced to endure the streets or cramped shelters.

The government’s failure to provide promised financial assistance and alternative housing has exacerbated their plight, leaving them in a constant struggle for survival. Shockingly, the authorities have disregarded a 2021 Supreme Court ruling that mandated the provision of alternative homes with basic amenities within two years, highlighting the deep-rooted issue of negligence and lack of accountability. Immediate action is imperative. An independent commission, inclusive of the affected residents, must be established. Furthermore, rightful compensation must be provided to the affected individuals, and the outstanding rent cheques must be issued without delay. Resettlement in their original districts would help preserve their social connections, employment opportunities and access to education for their children. It is crucial for the government to recognise the long-term implications of uprooting individuals from their communities and take steps to mitigate the damage caused. The Ghar Bahali rally serves as a powerful reminder that the affected residents are not mere statistics or collateral damage in development projects. They are human beings with rights who deserve compassion, respect, and support from the authorities. The government must listen to their pleas, acknowledge their suffering and take immediate action to rectify the injustices they have endured.

The entire ordeal also highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive and empathetic approach to urban development, prioritising inclusive and sustainable practices. While infrastructure and cleanliness are important, they should never come at the expense of vulnerable communities without proper resettlement plans.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 12^th, 2023.

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