Grand operation launched to remove encroachments along Karachi’s drains

KARACHI: An operation has been launched on Wednesday to removed demolish illegally constructed houses, shops and other structures along stormwater drains in the city.

Karachi Metropolitan Corporation’s (KMC) anti-encroachment wing launched an operation to seven thousand shops and nine thousand houses along the drains. The anti-encroachment drive has commenced at Cafe Piyala in Gulberg Town and along the Gujjar Nullah.

During the first phase, KMC officials said shops built along drains will be pulled down. More than 100 policemen are taking part in the operation alongside KMC staff to prevent any untoward incident and retaliation from residents.

Deputy Commissioner Central District said the squatters erected along the drains will be torn down in the first phase while illegal houses will be razed in the second phase that will commence after occupants are provided alternative places. He clarified that the occupants of these houses will not be rendered homeless.

Earlier the authorities had instructed the people living along the Gujjar Nala to evacuate their homes by 7AM to launch a grand operation and restore all major drains and sewerage lines in an effort to overcome drainage problems in Karachi.

A survey conducted by Sindh Irrigation Department and the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) a few years ago pointed out thousands of houses built illegally on Gujjar Nullah stretched over a distance of 13.5 kilometers, while 27 other drains are occupied due to illegal encroachments.