Sindh govt lifts ban on commercial use of residential plots
KARACHI: In a major development that could reshape the city’s long-running battle over land use, the Sindh Master Plan Authority on Friday withdrew the notification that imposed an immediate ban on the conversion of residential land for commercial use, opening the door to a fresh regulatory chapter for Karachi’s property landscape. However, officials said the withdrawal of the notification does…
Karachi, Sindh: The Sindh Master Plan Authority has lifted a ban on converting residential land into commercial use, in a significant development for the city's real estate industry. The decision, made in compliance with a May 2026 Federal Constitutional Court order, overturns a 2019 notification that had frozen land use changes following Supreme Court rulings in 2018 and 2019.
Officials clarified that the withdrawal of the notification does not mean commercialization is automatic, but must still comply with laws, master plans, and approvals from competent authorities. The court's order lifts restrictions on converting residential plots to commercial and recreational use, providing relief to builders and developers.
However, amenity plots like parks, schools, and mosques cannot be converted for commercial or residential purposes. The Sindh Master Plan Authority's fresh notification outlines the steps required following the court's order, emphasizing strict compliance with existing laws and directions.
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