Commercial use of residences

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The Sindh government's recent decision to legalise commercial activities in residential areas raises significant concerns about the long-term implications for community integrity, quality of life and urban planning. In most of the world, home-based businesses and offices are restricted to a handful of employees and customers to reduce the nuisance value for neighbours.

Here, the Sindh government has approved a veritable free-for-all. While the government and other proponents argue that the policy could stimulate economic activity and make neighbourhoods more vibrant, the potential drawbacks far outweigh these perceived benefits.

Firstly, the essence of residential areas lies in their primary function as places for living, resting and building community relationships. Allowing commercial activities transforms peaceful enclaves into bustling marketplaces. Most people invest in homes with the understanding that they are purchasing peace and tranquility, not the hustle and bustle of commerce.

The encroachment of commercial entities disrupts this balance, eroding the very fabric of neighbourhood life. Moreover, the health implications cannot be overlooked. Increased foot traffic and vehicular movement lead to higher pollution levels, and studies have consistently shown that noise and poor air quality lead to increased stress levels and various health problems, further compromising the well-being of residents.

Additionally, the dynamics of property values come into play. The introduction of commercial activities often leads to an increase in traffic and a decrease in safety, resulting in a decline in property values. Long-term residents may find themselves in a precarious position where their homes' worth diminishes due to the very changes that were sold to them as beneficial.

This can create a sense of instability and uncertainty for families who have made significant investments in their neighbourhoods. Conversely, where neighbourhoods remain safe, businesses can drive up rental prices to the point where potential residents are being forced out of good neighbourhoods.