KARACHI: The anti-encroachment operation to demolish illegally constructed structures along the stormwater drains in the city entered the second day on Thursday.
The operation was started by the anti-encroachment of the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC). During the first phase, illegally constructed structures were demolished from New Karachi, Gujjar Nalla and Cafe Piyala in Gulberg.
The occupants have been instructed to vacate all illegally constructed structures falling within 105-foot of the stromwater drains. A large contingent of police have been deployed to prevent any untoward incident or rioting by residents.
READ MORE: Grand operation launched to remove encroachments along Karachi’s drains
A survey would be conducted at three spots in Karachi’s central district to identify the illegal constructions. The grand operation commenced on Wednesday to clear illegal encroachments after problems were faced during the recent monsoon rains.
According to a survey made by government departments, most of the stormwater drains in Karachi have been encroached with illegally constructed houses, shops and other structures. These encroachments impede the free flow of the rainwater causing urban flooding and immense damage to the city.
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.
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