Encroachment removal deadline set

Bench stresses need for immediate operations to eliminate encroachments

KARACHI:

The Sindh High Court (SHC) has directed the Sindh government to clear encroachments along the Superhighway from Sohrab Goth to Toll Plaza within a week.

The decision was given by a two-member bench, headed by Justice Nadeem Akhtar, while hearing a petition raising concerns at illegal constructions and encroachments in the area. The bench also expressed frustration over the government’s failure to comply with the previous court orders to remove the encroachments.

The bench stressed the need for immediate operations to eliminate encroachments around Al-Asif Square as a priority. Justice Akhtar directed the agencies, including FWO, NHA, Rangers, Police, and others, to collaborate with the administration for this purpose. The court warned these institutions of potential consequences if the court order is not implemented.

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Justice Akhtar highlighted the alarming situation on the M9 Motorway, where all lanes, except for two, have been occupied. The court expressed disappointment over the encroachment on the green belt and service roads, stressing that such disregard for responsibility undermines the court orders.

The additional advocate general informed the court about the chief secretary’s formation of a high-level committee. Justice Akhtar criticised the frequent formation of committees, urging the government to declare its intent to remove encroachments. He stated that the court would take appropriate action once the government’s intentions were clear.

The court questioned the deputy commissioner for District East about the time required for encroachment elimination. The DC stated a week is needed.

The court issued a specific order to restore the roads and green belts of Sohrab Goth, Al-Asif Square, and the Superhighway according to the original master plan. The AAG suggested that erecting fences along the Superhighway would prevent reoccupation. Justice Akhtar approved the idea, reiterating the court’s order for the provincial government to remove encroachments on the Superhighway within a week.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 1^st, 2023.