It is anticipated that commercial activity would soon increase in residential neighborhoods.
The Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) has formally eliminated the division between Karachi’s residential and commercial districts, a decision that has generated intense discussion.
The SBCA has now permitted commercial building and operations in residential zones by amending the Karachi Building & Town Planning Regulations 2002. This ruling authorizes the use of plots on highways that are 60, 80, 100, and 150 feet wide for commercial and recreational activities.
Many urban planners and residents are criticizing the move as controversial and detrimental to the city’s already precarious infrastructure, even as some see it as a step toward urban development. There may be more strain on utilities, traffic, and other public services as a result, experts caution.
Commercial activity in residential neighborhoods is expected to increase quickly, according to social analysts. Locals fear that shops, wedding venues, shisha bars, and cafés may soon open next to their houses, upsetting the tranquility and interfering with daily life.
The modification has, however, raised grave concerns from representatives of the Association of Builders and Developers (ABAD). According to the ABAD Chairman, such a move would have a detrimental effect on other regions of Sindh in addition to Karachi.
Without appropriate limits, he said, this change might result in unchecked expansion, more traffic, and long-term urban problems. “The problems will only get worse if we don’t stop now,” he said.
The SBCA’s ruling has undoubtedly paved the way for a new era of urban growth, but it is unclear if this will result in turmoil or advancement.
