ISLAMABAD: In a landmark ruling, the Federal Constitutional Court provided a massive relief to builderes and lifted the long-standing prohibition on converting residential plots into commercial properties in Karachi. The court’s decision effectively disposes of the case regarding illegal constructions in the city, shifting the focus from blanket bans to institutional regulation and the rule of law.
وفاقی آئینی عدالت نے کراچی میں غیرقانونی تعمیرات سے متعلق اہم کیس نمٹاتے ہوئے بلڈرز کو بڑا ریلیف دے دیا۔
عدالت نے رہائشی پلاٹوں کی کمرشل کیٹیگری میں تبدیلی پر عائد پابندی ختم کرتے ہوئے سابقہ عدالتی فیصلہ واپس لے لیا۔
عدالت نے فیصلہ دیا کہ پارکس، اسپتالوں اور کھیل کے میدانوں…
— Aamir Saeed Abbasi (@AmirSaeedAbbasi) May 12, 2026
During the course of proceedings on Tuesday, while the court eased restrictions on private residential plots, it established a firm “red line” for public spaces. The bench, comprising Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Arshad Hussain, clarified that the status of public amenity plots—including parks, hospitals, and playgrounds—remains protected and cannot be changed under any circumstances.
Justice Aamer Farooq emphasized that the judiciary will not interfere in the administrative functions of state bodies, such as the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA), provided they operate within legal frameworks.
“The court cannot make laws; it can only enforce them,” Justice Farooq remarked, underscoring the separation of powers.
The court noted that if an institution is found to be violating the law, aggrieved parties should approach the relevant administrative forums or the High Court rather than seeking direct intervention.
A significant highlight of the ruling was the confirmation that the power of suo motu notice has officially ended. Justice Farooq stated that established laws are already in place to address violations of building codes. He outlined the legal roadmap for citizens:
Appellate Rights: Any party unsatisfied with a High Court decision retains the right to file a formal appeal.
Institutional Trust: The court expressed its expectation that town planning institutions will conduct their duties in good faith.
Legal Clarity: Previous Supreme Court decisions regarding plot categorization will no longer serve as an obstacle to institutional work, provided that the actions align with current legislation.
The ruling also carried a stern warning for the bureaucracy. Justice Arshad Hussain ruled that strict legal action will be initiated against any officer found violating the law or misusing their authority in the conversion process.
The verdict is expected to provide significant relief to the real estate and development sectors in Karachi while placing the responsibility for orderly urban growth squarely on the shoulders of local regulatory authorities.
