Summary:
Karachi anti-encroachment drive has continued to intensify, leading to the sealing of numerous markets and shops across the city. The motorcycle market on Akbar Road remained shut for a third day, while 86 shops in an auto-spareparts market were also sealed. Officials state that premises will reopen only after traders provide written undertakings to prevent future encroachments.
Karachi’s Anti-Encroachment Drive Gains Momentum
The anti-encroachment drive in Karachi has broadened its scope, resulting in the sealing of extensive commercial areas. Following the closure of the entire motorcycle market on Akbar Road, authorities moved to seal the auto-spareparts market off M.A. Jinnah Road near Tibet Centre, alongside hundreds of other shops throughout the metropolis. This expansion of the campaign, now impacting a wider range of traders, has drawn considerable attention.
Officials indicated that 86 shops in the auto-spareparts market were sealed primarily due to vehicles parked for repairs obstructing the main road, contributing to significant traffic congestion. A similar rationale was cited for sealing 115 shops in the Akbar Road motorcycle market, which remained closed for a third day, impacting numerous businesses in the city’s commercial hub. Deputy Commissioner South, Javed Nabi Khoso, specified that shopkeepers at Tibet Centre had received three prior warnings. SindhNews.com reported that these actions aim to clear public thoroughfares. He added that mechanics and electricians often occupying roadside spaces were hired by shop owners, exacerbating the problem.
Directives for the Anti-Encroachment Drive
A recent meeting established that shops would only be reopened after owners submit an affidavit, guaranteeing compliance with standard operating procedures. This phased reopening would apply to establishments that provide such undertakings to District Commissioners. Any subsequent violation of these SOPs could lead to premises being sealed for three days. DC-South Khoso warned that repeat breaches after submitting the affidavit would result in arrests and the registration of FIRs against offenders.
Karachi Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi affirmed that the city’s anti-encroachment drive would persist, emphasizing that no shop or eatery would be permitted to place goods on footpaths, roads, or service lanes. He noted that the campaign is crucial to curbing the rising trend of obstructions. In the past three days alone, 196 eateries across different parts of the city have been sealed as part of this ongoing effort.
Traders Express Concern Over Economic Impact
Conversely, the business community has voiced strong disapproval of the government’s measures, arguing they are unnecessary and could severely harm businesses and the national economy. Muhammad Sabir Shaikh, a former office-bearer of the Motorcycle Dealers Association, highlighted that displaying vehicles outside outlets is a common global practice. He suggested that authorities should designate specific lanes for this purpose. Another bike dealer, without elaborating, alleged that the entire exercise, presented as an anti-encroachment drive, seemed aimed at revenue generation.
The intensified anti-encroachment drive continues to reshape Karachi’s commercial landscape, balancing the official goal of clearing public spaces with the traders’ concerns about economic disruption and operational challenges. The coming days will reveal the efficacy of these directives and the broader impact on the city’s economy.