Court Lifts Ban on Converting Residential Plots for Commercial Use in Karachi

The Federal Constitutional Court has lifted restrictions on the conversion of residential plots for commercial and recreational use in Karachi.

A bench headed by Justice Aamer Farooq disposed of the long-running case related to illegal constructions in Karachi and withdrew earlier restrictions on changing the status of residential plots to commercial use.

However, the court made it clear that amenity plots, including parks, schools, hospitals, mosques, playgrounds, and graveyards, cannot be converted for commercial or residential purposes.

During the hearing, Justice Aamer Farooq said the court would not interfere in the functioning of institutions such as the Sindh Building Control Authority unless there was a clear violation of law.

The judge observed that affected parties could approach the relevant forum or the high court in case of violations and also retained the right to file appeals against court decisions.

Justice Arshad Hussain also remarked that officials violating building regulations or planning laws would face legal action under existing laws.

The ruling is considered important for Karachi’s real estate and construction sector, where restrictions on commercial activities in residential areas had become a major point of dispute between developers, residents, and authorities.