The Sindh Building Control Authority has launched a wide-ranging crackdown on illegal constructions in Karachi’s South District, issuing show-cause notices to more than 60 officers and officials for negligence and failure to act.
The action follows a vigilance report that uncovered unauthorised construction at 38 locations across the district. Based on these findings, the authority has initiated a formal inquiry against officials responsible for oversight during the period of violations.
According to SBCA officials, the inquiry covers deputy directors, assistant directors, building inspectors, engineers, and architects. Authorities have served notices to 12 deputy directors, 19 assistant directors, and 29 building inspectors.
Each officer must submit a written explanation within seven days. Failure to respond could result in suspension or dismissal. The officials served were assigned to the South District at the time the illegal construction occurred.
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The vigilance report identified illegal activity in several areas, including Lyari, Saddar, Clifton, Civil Lines, Garden West Quarters, Gulshan-e-Faisal, Aram Bagh Quarters, Hangoraabad, Bahar Colony, and Nawaabad.
Officials said these neighbourhoods saw repeated violations despite the presence of regulatory staff, pointing to serious lapses in monitoring and enforcement.
SBCA has declared all 38 structures a direct threat to public safety. Officials said builders used fake or unapproved plans and constructed ground-plus multi-storey buildings, unauthorised shops, and residential or mixed-use properties.
Many of the buildings remain occupied without completion certificates or safety clearances. Sources confirmed that most lack fire safety systems, approved structural designs, adequate parking, and emergency access routes, significantly increasing risk for occupants and the surrounding areas.
The SBCA Director General said the authority will act without discrimination and ensure accountability at every level. He acknowledged institutional failure to curb illegal construction in the district and confirmed that departmental proceedings are underway.
The authority also said it is strengthening internal controls to prevent similar violations and restore public confidence in Karachi’s building regulation system.
