In a major win for Karachi’s civil society, the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) has withdrawn its March 13, 2025 notification that sought to amend the Karachi Building and Town Planning Regulations (KBTPR) 2002, which would have allowed the regularisation of commercial activities in residential neighbourhoods.

The decision comes after sustained advocacy and legal actions by residents, urban rights groups, and several political parties. A total of six petitions were filed in the Sindh High Court challenging the controversial notification, including those submitted by Clifton residents and a joint petition by the Public Interest Law Association of Pakistan, ShehriCBE, and the Urban Resource Centre (URC).

The Knowledge Forum, along with URC and Shehri, played a pivotal role in mobilising public opinion by organising a dialogue at the Karachi Press Club on April 24. This was followed by a dedicated forum hosted by URC on April 29 at its office, where stakeholders discussed the farreaching implications of the proposed amendments.

Civil society representatives have welcomed the government’s decision, describing it as a testament to the power of community engagement and the importance of protecting the character of Karachi’s residential areas. They have also called for transparency, demanding that the government make public a list of all areas and buildings that were commercialised or regularised during the twomonth period the notification was in effect.

Urban rights activists have emphasised the need for continued vigilance and collective action to ensure that Karachi’s urban planning reflects the needs and aspirations of its residents. They urged authorities to prioritise sustainable development and uphold the integrity of residential neighbourhoods across the city.