The Sindh High Court (SHC) ruled that all commercial activities in Karachi’s public parks and playgrounds are illegal. A two-judge panel gave this verdict in response to a petition by Jamaat-e-Islami (JI).
The petition was filed by Advocate Saifuddin, the leader of the City Council’s opposition, and the chairmen of nine Town Municipal Corporations (TMCs). They challenged the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation’s (KMC) use of parks for business purposes.
The TMCs involved are New Karachi, Liaquatabad, Gulberg, Nazimabad, North Nazimabad, Model Colony, Gulshan-i-Iqbal, Jinnah, and Landhi.
The SHC cancelled a City Council decision that allowed commercial use of land meant for parks. The court said KMC does not have the power to lease parks to private companies. This power has not been given to local governments by the Sindh Assembly under Article 140A of the Constitution.
The verdict stated that public parks are only for fun and relaxation. This is protected by Article 9A, which gives citizens the right to use such spaces.
This ruling protects Karachi’s public parks and keeps them safe for everyone to enjoy. It also shows why it is important to save public places as the city grows. The decision may lead to closer watch on local government actions.
