Anti-encroachment drive continues amid tight security in Karachi

KARACHI: Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC)’s anti-encroachment department and district administration have continued operation to remove trespasses for the second day in Liaquatabad and FC Area of the metropolis, ARY News reported on Wednesday.

Illegal shops and factories established on footpaths and green belt have been razed by heavy machinery amid tight security.

A large number of local residents gathered in the areas in an apparent preparation to resist the officials busy in removing encroachments.

Heavy contingents of police and Rangers were called at the sites.

A KMC anti-encroachment team has also commenced operation in Kharadar neighbourhood where several cabins, vending stalls and junk cars have been seized by the administration.

Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) authorities had resumed anti-encroachment drive from Karachi’s Liaquatabad and FC Area yesterday (Tuesday).

Around 10 shops have been razed which were established illegal under a high tension line yesterday.

Few outrageous persons have tried to interrupt the anti-encroachment operation, however, their attempts were foiled. Police officials arrested two persons over interrupting the operation and creating violence.

On February 26, the Supreme Court (SC) had issued directives to the relevant authorities to cooperate and continue the operation against encroachment in Karachi.

During the hearing about removal of encroachment and reviving the metropolis, Karachi Registry of the apex court directed the Sindh chief secretary to supervise the anti-encroachment operation and ensure cooperation and consultation among relevant departments and organisations.

It ordered to remove all the encroachment from the city including from Bagh Ibn-e-Qasim.