In response to directives from the apex court aimed at assisting families displaced during a demolition drive along major drains in Karachi two years ago, the caretaker Sindh Chief Minister, Justice (retd) Maqbool Baqar, chaired a meeting to address the issue. During the session, the chief minister urged the finance department to allocate funds for the construction of a township in Malir to accommodate the affected families.
Acknowledging the delay in providing aid to these families, the chief minister emphasized the urgency of the situation and instructed the local government department to initiate the internal development of the township promptly.
The meeting focused on finalizing the development plan for a township at Taiser Town, aimed at housing families affected by the Gujjar, Mehmoodabad, and Orangi Town drains. Details discussed included the allocation of 137.74 acres for approximately 6,500 affected individuals, with each family set to receive an 80-square-yard plot. Additionally, the government plans to cover construction costs after transferring the possession of plots, ensuring they are free from any legal complications.
The caretaker chief minister emphasized the need for comprehensive development, including infrastructure like parks, playgrounds, schools, and mosques, along with essential utilities such as gas, water, and electricity for the township.
Furthermore, directives were issued to expedite the release of funds for both inner and outer development of the housing scheme, with a commitment from the chief minister to personally oversee the quality of work in the area.
The development work is to be initiated by the Malir Development Authority (MDA), with a strict timeline of six months given for its completion. The meeting attendees included officials from various departments such as Local Government, Law, and Finance, along with the Mayor of Karachi, Chief Secretary, and MDA Director General.
This initiative comes after the Supreme Court’s orders in 2021 for compensation and rehabilitation of affected families. Despite assurances and subsequent progress, many families remain discontented, expressing grievances about not receiving the promised rent support despite repeated visits to relevant offices.
Efforts are underway to expedite the rehabilitation process and adhere to the court’s directives, aiming for a more expedited resolution and assistance for the affected families.
Acknowledgement: Daily Dawn