KMC Seeks Commercial Use of Prime Plots

The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) has requested permission to transform three of its prime residential properties into commercial spaces, sparking debate over the legality, transparency, valuation, and processes involved. The proposal, submitted by the KMC's director of land to the head of the Sindh government's Master Plan Department, pertains to three specific plots: Plot No. 25 in Sheet No. FT-3 in Frere Quarters, Clifton, totaling 2,000 square yards; Plot No. ST-9 in Block-14, Gulshan-i-Iqbal, amounting to 1,161.6 square yards; and Plot No. 2-B at the former Sabzi Mandi near Askari Park, also 2,000 square yards.

These properties are currently designated for residential use, but the KMC aims to shift their classification to commercial, ensuring adherence to all relevant rules, regulations, and departmental guidelines throughout the transition.

Critics, notably KMC Opposition Leader Saifuddin Advocate, have called for full disclosure of all valuable properties under consideration for sale, auction, lease, transfer, or use in public-private partnerships. He demanded specifics regarding property ownership, current utilization, official valuations, relevant documentation, proposals, and approvals from the relevant authorities.

In correspondence with the municipal commissioner, Advocate also sought information on any KMC properties that have been sold, leased, transferred, or utilized through public-private partnerships within the past five years, including the amounts obtained and their intended purposes. He emphasized that no valuable public asset should be transferred or disposed of without proper legal procedures, transparency, and review by the appropriate bodies.

The KMC, however, defended the initiative as a strategic move to optimize the utilization of its prime assets. The corporation clarified that the commercialization phase remains subject to proper procedures and will eventually be presented to the KMC Council for further guidance. The opposition leader also expressed concerns regarding KMC bungalows situated near Teen Talwar in Clifton, citing reports of notices issued to officers residing there and public notices regarding the planned amalgamation of KMC properties.

He questioned the publication of such notices in newspapers with limited circulation, citing potential irregularities in the management of valuable KMC assets. The KMC's spokesperson affirmed that the process was initiated to enhance the use of prime property for the benefit of the institution, with the matter to be reviewed by the KMC Council after completing the requisite procedures.