In the Supreme Court hearing regarding the provision of alternative housing for the Gujjar, Orangi, and Mehmoodabad Nallah victims, Justice Syed Hassan Azhar Rizvi made a pointed remark about the police’s inability to curb encroachments, stating that nearly half of Karachi has transformed into settlements. The Court, consisting of Justices Muhammad Ali Mazhar, Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi, and Irfan Saadat Khan, demanded a progress report within 15 days on this matter.
During the hearing, key officials like Mayor Karachi Murtaza Wahab, Chief Secretary, Commissioner Karachi, and others were present. The Court expressed dissatisfaction over the lack of implementation in providing alternative housing, with Justice Syed Hussain Azhar Rizvi emphasizing the need for immediate action, suggesting the use of private security if necessary to prevent further encroachments.
Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar pushed for an update on the progress of arranging alternative housing, questioning the delay in complying with the Court’s orders. The Chief Secretary mentioned pending cabinet approval, to which the Court insisted that regardless of bureaucratic processes, the Court’s directives must be followed.
Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab presented two options for alternative housing solutions, mentioning that land had been allocated, but encroachments needed removal—a proposal supported by the Chief Secretary.
However, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar cautioned about the cyclical nature of the issue, highlighting the responsibility to clear the land before construction. The Additional Advocate General explained that while the land was available, considerations for construction funds and house building were ongoing.
Efforts to provide aid to the victims faced hurdles, including issues like blocked ID cards, uncontacted individuals, and deaths among the affected. The Court directed the list of victims to be provided to their legal representation.
Justice Irfan Saadat Khan expressed concerns about the progression of the matter, cautioning against stalling progress. Mayor Karachi assured that pending checks for 491 victims would be distributed.
Tensions arose between government and victim representatives during the hearing, with Faisal Siddiqui Advocate highlighting the severity of the homelessness issue, leading the Court to reprimand both parties for engaging in unnecessary exchanges.
In conclusion, the Supreme Court directed authorities to consider proposed solutions for alternative housing and resolve the matter. They also mandated an interim report submission within 15 days, allowing the provincial government time for cabinet approval.