KARACHI – The Institution of Engineers Pakistan (IEP) said on Monday that the proposed ‘Sindh Protection and Prohibition of Amenity Plots Bill, 2009, if passed, would be disastrous for the citizens and the future generations
In a statement issued on Monday, Engineer Ayaz stated that most areas of Karachi that were well-planned by competent town planners over the initial 35 years of the country, are being systematically destroyed by blatant abuse and violation of building and town-planning laws.
Amenity plots – meant for the good of common public – instead of being left open for parks, schools, graveyards, mosques, hospitals and playgrounds, are being progressively decimated by illegal construction of residential and commercial structures.
The IEP recommended that instead of encroaching on existing open spaces, all such unlawful construction be demolished and new open spaces be created to cater to the exploding population. The Sindh Assembly members should know that their actions or inaction over the years have affected the quality of life of everyone but more of the deprived members of the society, who have limited access to civic, medical or recreational facilities, the IEP said.
“We therefore demand from our provincial legislators to permanently remove the Bill No 7 from the docket of the Sindh Assembly and have mercy on the cities of Sindh and its residents” the statement added. The lEP works to improve the environment in cities by involving the local universities to provide technical support to the civic and government agencies. The most important action required immediately is to regulate all new initiatives that adversely affect the environment.
