KARACHI: The ongoing investigation into the controversial Hill Park land dispute has entered a significant phase after Karachi authorities questioned the legality of a disputed plot and initiated a comprehensive land survey to verify official records.
According to Beyond Time News, officials are examining claims surrounding alleged encroachments and construction activities on land associated with Hill Park, one of Karachi’s prominent public recreational spaces.
The latest developments come as authorities intensify efforts to determine the legal status of the disputed property and safeguard public land.
Mayor Questions Existence of Disputed Plot
Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab stated that the plot at the center of the controversy does not appear in the original layout plan of the area.
According to him, available records show no evidence that the disputed plot forms part of the approved development scheme.
He explained that certain construction activities were reportedly justified through lease documents linked to PECHS. However, a review of the original layout plan failed to identify the contested plot number.
As a result, authorities have raised serious questions regarding the legal standing of the land under dispute.
KMC Begins Comprehensive Land Survey
To establish the facts, the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) has started a detailed survey of the area.
Officials aim to determine the exact boundaries of Hill Park and verify ownership records.
Murtaza Wahab noted that a 1974 government notification identifies Hill Park as covering approximately 56 acres.
Furthermore, he clarified that KMC has never allotted any portion of the park’s land to private individuals or organizations.
The survey is expected to provide clarity regarding the disputed property and help authorities assess whether any violations have occurred.
Authorities Warn Against Encroachments
The mayor emphasized that authorities will not tolerate illegal occupation of public land.
He warned that strict action would follow if investigations reveal violations of approved layout plans or unauthorized construction activities.
Moreover, he reiterated the city’s commitment to protecting public assets and ensuring that recreational spaces remain accessible to residents.
Officials believe the inquiry will help establish transparency and address concerns surrounding the disputed site.
KMC Rejects Claims of Construction Approval
The dispute intensified after KMC formally denied issuing any permission or no-objection certificate (NOC) for construction on the land in question.
Officials stated that neither authorization nor development rights had been granted for activities taking place on the site.
Consequently, authorities have launched an investigation into the origin of documents allegedly used to justify the construction work.
Alleged Forged Documents Under Investigation
According to KMC officials, investigators have identified a document cited in support of the construction project as potentially fraudulent.
The civic body specifically declared Letter No. DL/KMC/232/2026 fabricated and legally invalid.
Officials suspect that certain individuals may have attempted to use forged paperwork to support claims over the disputed property.
Therefore, the inquiry now includes an examination of possible forgery and fraudulent representation.
Police Asked to Assist Investigation
As part of the investigation, KMC has contacted law enforcement authorities.
Formal letters have been sent to the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) East and the Station House Officer (SHO) of Ferozabad Police Station.
The correspondence requests legal scrutiny and assistance in investigating the matter.
Additionally, authorities are reviewing all ongoing development activities at the disputed location.
Legal Status of Plot Under Review
Officials confirmed that the legal status of Plot No. 39-G-4 in the PECHS area remains under examination.
They also stated that a conditional NOC is allegedly being misused to justify construction work.
However, KMC maintains that the document does not authorize the occupation, development, or use of government-owned land.
As a result, authorities continue to assess whether any laws have been violated.
Possible Legal Action Against Responsible Individuals
The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation has indicated that criminal proceedings may follow if investigators uncover evidence of wrongdoing.
Officials have recommended legal action against individuals involved in alleged land grabbing, forgery, or fraudulent activities linked to the dispute.
Meanwhile, the ongoing survey and inquiry aim to establish a complete factual record before authorities make final decisions.
Public Land Protection Remains Priority
The Hill Park investigation highlights broader concerns regarding the protection of public spaces in Karachi.
City officials say preserving public land remains a top priority and that authorities will continue taking action against unauthorized development.
The outcome of the survey and legal review could play an important role in determining the future of the disputed site and ensuring accountability where necessary.
FAQs
What is the Hill Park land dispute about?
The dispute involves allegations of encroachment and unauthorized construction on land associated with Hill Park in Karachi.
Why did authorities launch a survey?
KMC initiated the survey to verify land records, establish boundaries, and determine the legal status of the disputed property.
What did Mayor Murtaza Wahab say about the disputed plot?
He stated that the contested plot does not appear in the original layout plan and is not part of the approved scheme according to available records.
Has KMC approved construction on the disputed land?
No. KMC officials have denied issuing any permission or NOC for construction on the site.
Could legal action be taken?
Yes. Authorities have indicated that criminal cases may be registered if evidence of forgery, fraud, or illegal occupation emerges during the investigation.
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