According to recent reports, more than 170 amenity plots of land meant for parks, playgrounds, schools and welfare projects were unlawfully leased out in Orangi during 2019 and 2020. This blatant misuse of authority is not just an administrative lapse, it is a criminal act that has deprived the people of their rightful public spaces.
Amenity plots are lifelines for urban communities, especially in densely populated areas like Orangi. Their illegal conversion into private or commercial plots threatens the basic civic infrastructure and environmental balance of the locality. Such acts worsen the quality of life and deny future generations of a chance to have access to the much-needed public services.
Recently, the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), under the direction of its mayor, revoked these unlawful leases and initiated an inquiry. However, it is imperative that complete details of all encroached and leased plots be made public to ensure transparency and hold the responsible officials accountable.
All amenity plots should be restored to their original purpose of serving the public interest, while there should be strict legal action against all those who misused authority. This is not just a matter of land management; it is a matter of public trust, justice and the fundamental rights of the people. This matter must not be buried under bureaucratic files.
RAZI ALAM
KARACHI
