KARACHI: The Jamaat-e-Islami has officially filed a petition in the Sindh High Court (SHC), challenging the recent felling of trees and ongoing construction activities within Hill Park in Karachi.
The petitioners, including Muhammad Farooq and others, have named the Secretary of Local Government, the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), the Karachi Mayor, and additional officials as respondents.
According to the petition, Hill Park is considered the last remaining green space and recreational area within the city. The petition emphasizes that multiple Supreme Court rulings have safeguarded the park’s status and protected its environment.
It is alleged that the KMC Land Department issued two No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) in April 2026, authorizing construction on a plot located within Hill Park. Additionally, the petition states that a private organization is operating a sports complex on another section of the park.
The legal team representing the petitioners argued that public parks and open spaces are entrusted to the public and should be preserved as such. They mentioned that the UC chairman has already informed the KMC and relevant authorities via video message regarding these issues.
The petitioners’ lawyer contended that such spaces should not be exploited for private or commercial purposes. He requested the court to declare the NOCs issued by the KMC Land Department as invalid and to impose a ban on illegal constructions and commercial activities within Hill Park.
Furthermore, the lawyer sought an order to restore the land to its original state by demolishing any structures built unlawfully on it.
The petition has been submitted by JI MPA Muhammad Farooq, UC Chairman Irfanullah, and City Council Member Taimoor Ahmed.
