The Sindh High Court (SHC) on Wednesday directed the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) to remove encroachments from Jahangir Park within seven days.
The court directed the KMC to demolish the quarters established on park’s land and accommodate its citizens in Korangi. To maintain law and order situation, the SHC directed the KMC to get help from Rangers and police for demolition.
The SHC bench was hearing the petition filed by a citizen, Maulana Muhammad Dars, in which he sought rehabilitation of Jahangir Park and removal of encroachment from it.
He submitted that the park had historical importance, but now it had become a haven for drug users due to the negligence of relevant administration.
The petitioner pleaded the court that bus and rickshaw stands have been established in the park, which has ruined its beauty. “Encroachment, fruit stalls and pushcarts around the park have ruined the park’s beauty, Maulana told the court.
He prayed to it to direct the administration to remove encroachments, bus stands and other obstacles from around the park. He requested the court that the park should be developed again. The court was further requested to direct the authorities concerned to rehabilitate the park and remove the encroachment from it so that it can be used for public recreation once again.
Jahangir Park has its historical importance as it was gifted to Karachiites in 1893 by a Parsi Philanthopist, Khan Behramjee.
