Citizens urged to stand against environmental degradation

The Karachi Citizens Forum has urged residents of Karachi to raise their voices, share evidence from their neighbourhoods, and stand united against unchecked land misuse and growing environmental decline in the city.

The call came during a recent consultation meeting, where participants from different segments of society expressed concern over the rapid and unplanned commercialisation of residential areas.

Among the key speakers were KCF convenor Nargis Rahman, Barrister Shahab Usto, PILAP chairman Saad Amanullah Khan, and Karachi Urban Lab director Mohamad Tauheed.

Speakers warned that the increasing conversion of residential neighbourhoods into commercial and high-rise zones is eroding the planned structure of the metropolis and threatening citizens' right to a peaceful living environment.

Participants highlighted that Karachi is already facing severe urban challenges, including shrinking green spaces, rapid concrete expansion, traffic congestion, and overburdened civic infrastructure. They said weak enforcement of zoning and building regulations has allowed unregulated construction, leading to irreversible changes in several parts of the city.