Disruptive social media users eclipse Bukhari's glitzy facelift

A commercial area in the posh Defence Housing Authority (DHA) has recently created a huge buzz online after undergoing a facelift, but the new clean, glitzy look has started attracting social media content creators in droves - much to the inconvenience of local residents.

The Bukhari Commercial area in DHA, Phase VI, has been renovated, with new traffic signals, lamp poles, floral arrangements, and colourfully painted roads and streets. While the changes have attracted families and visitors from across the metropolis, the influx of young noisy social media users on motorcycles and in cars has created an environment that many residents, business owners, and resident families find disruptive.

"For others, it's a place to hang out and shoot TikTok videos; for us, it's a nuisance," said Owais, a local resident. "This is a commercial area, not a public park or an entertainment spot," he added. "I've to leave for work early in the morning, but these noisy visitors make it difficult for my family to sleep until late in night."

Owais, who appeared visibly distressed by the unwelcome influx of visitors, especially young noisy content creators, explained that he is not the only one feeling the way he feels. "It a huge nuisance for all, but they hesitate to speak up," he said.

Muhammad Rizwan, another resident, questioned the effect this "development" is having on local children. "Can you imagine what kind of impact this is having on our kids? How are they supposed to concentrate on their studies?" he asked.

Many residents expressed similar concerns, saying that the increased noise, bright lights, and sudden influx of people, particularly social media content creators, around their homes have negatively affected their quality of life. One resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "Is this what you call development?"

Muhammad Saqib complained that while the area might appear more attractive to outsiders, it has become chaotic for those living here. "People from other areas come here and don't care about families live around them," he said. "For them, it's an entertainment spot where they can shoot videos for their social media pages. They see the renovated lights, roads, and traffic signals - things they've probably never seen before in this way. It's not their fault, but it's creating problems for us."

Saqib said that he was considering shift to another area. He acknowledged that while the new look might benefit business owners whose families don't live nearby, but it has created a nuisance for families residing in the area.

Business activities in the renovated area usually begin after sunset and continue late into the night.

"People from all over the city are coming here regularly," said Dr Iffat, a café owner. "Yes, business has picked up," she confirmed. "I am not sure how residents feel about this type of development, but shopkeepers are happy," she added with a smile.

Both residents and shopkeepers said that young men often gather in the area with mobilephone cameras, motorcycles, and cars, causing disturbances. "On weekends, it gets chaotic, but I think the novelty will wear off eventually," Dr Iffat speculated.

DHA spokesperson Farrukh Rizvi had a different, contrasting take on it. He said that the "positive public response" to the renovations had encouraged the authority to undertake similar projects in other areas, including Phase II. "We have taken all stakeholders into confidence," he told The Express Tribune.

"So far, we haven't received any complaints from residents," Rizvi said, adding that security patrols and vigilance are in place. "Yes, there is a rush on weekends, but it will gradually dwindle," he assured. He also noted that Karachi lacks places where people can go for family-friendly entertainment and relaxation.

Rizvi further assured that action would be taken against those causing disturbances or creating noise.