Karachi: Chairman of the Association of Builders and Developers of Pakistan (ABAD), Muhammad Hassan Bakshi, has welcomed the decision of the Federal Constitutional Court to lift the ban on the commercial conversion of residential plots, calling it a major breakthrough for Pakistan’s construction sector, urban planning, and overall economic activity.
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In a statement issued on Monday, the ABAD chairman said the prolonged suspension of legal commercialisation in Karachi had unintentionally strengthened illegal commercial activities and encouraged the so-called “portion mafia” to continue operating unchecked. He noted that the uncertainty had badly affected the real estate and construction sectors while also damaging investor confidence in the city.
Muhammad Hassan Bakshi said the case regarding the legal commercialisation of residential plots had remained pending before the courts since 2019 and was finally decided in 2026 after several years of uncertainty. He stressed that timely judicial decisions are essential for maintaining economic momentum, encouraging investment, and ensuring smooth business operations.
He observed that delayed verdicts create prolonged uncertainty for businesses, developers, and citizens, ultimately slowing down development activities and harming the economy.
The ABAD chairman clarified that the organisation strongly opposes the commercial conversion of parks, mosques, hospitals, and other amenity plots under any circumstances, emphasizing that such spaces are reserved for public welfare and community services. He stated that sustainable and balanced urban development is only possible when civic amenities are fully protected.
He further pointed out that Karachi has faced numerous legal disputes related to illegal constructions and law and order issues, where repeated Civil Miscellaneous Applications (CMAs) kept projects tied up in courts for years. According to him, this situation severely disrupted development projects and created difficulties for both investors and residents.
Muhammad Hassan Bakshi said the latest decision of the Federal Constitutional Court has restored confidence in the judicial process and is expected to positively impact lawful construction activities, urban planning, and future investment in Karachi.
He added that ABAD congratulates its members and stakeholders on the court’s decision and hopes that all future matters concerning the construction and housing sector will proceed strictly in accordance with legal and regulatory frameworks to ensure Karachi’s organized and sustainable growth.
