Protest Erupts in Karachi Against Secretive Construction at Nehr-i-Khayam

KARACHI: Environmentalists and local residents gathered on Sunday at the construction site of Nehr-i-Khayam to protest against the development of a commercial belt, which they claim is being built in secrecy. The demonstration included members from the Clifton Block 5 Residents Association and the Clifton Defence Community, who voiced their concerns over the potential environmental impact.

Protesters stood in front of heavy machinery, holding placards with messages such as ‘Violation of Supreme Court orders’ and ‘Don’t suffocate our waterways’. Masood Lohar, founder of the Clifton Urban Forest, criticized the lack of transparency from the authorities, stating, “Nehr-i-Khayam is a natural link between the Obhayo Lagoon and the Gizri Creek. Disrupting this ecosystem could lead to severe flooding and other natural disasters.”

The protest highlights growing tensions between urban development and environmental conservation in Karachi. Activists fear that unchecked construction could exacerbate flooding issues in the city, which has a history of water management challenges. The community’s call for public disclosure of construction plans reflects a broader demand for accountability in urban planning.

As the protest continues, local leaders are urging the government to halt construction until a thorough environmental impact assessment is conducted. Future demonstrations are planned, and residents are mobilizing to ensure their voices are heard in the decision-making process.