KMC Clears Cabins Of Welfare Centres Including Edhi, Saylani, Chhipa And Others

Karachi: As Part of its anti-encroachment drive, the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation has initiated a campaign against welfare cabins which have been situated alongside the city’s main roads and densely populated urban centres.

Human rights activist and lawyer Jibran Nasir took to Twitter protesting KMC’s action.

At the same time Commissioner office issued Heatwave warning for Karachi & KMC started drive to clear cabins of all welfare organizations including Edhi, Chipa, Saylani, Alamgir Trust etc from footpath. Edhi's ambulance network already affected. There is no sense of how to govern

— M. Jibran Nasir (@MJibranNasir) June 15, 2019

Nasir was of the view that these welfare centres are not here for commercial purposes. In fact, they facilitate the people of Karachi and have been doing so for decades.

“Edhi’s ambulance network already affected. There is no sense of how to govern”, Nasir added.

As per Senior Director KMC Bashir Siddiqui following number of cabins/branches of welfare centres (Edhi, Chipa, Saylani etc) which have been demolished in the name of encroachment Central 65, East 45, Malir 33, Korangi 85, South 43. Operation will be done in West on Monday. pic.twitter.com/qIdlDQp6Gg

— M. Jibran Nasir (@MJibranNasir) June 15, 2019

In a conversation with Independent Urdu regarding the recent demolishing drives, Faisal Edhi explained the repercussions the organisation might face. According to Edhi, the organisation’s ambulance system has already been affected. In a question pertaining to possibilities behind such an action, Edhi admitted that since KCR anti-encroachment campaign, which took place back in Ramadan, Edhi has been assisting the aggrieved families.

#Edhi Foundation will no more provide ambulance service to #Karachi as 10 Edhi shade across city & portions of 3 centres demolished by #KMC on the name of encroachment that affect 70% of communication system used to operate ambulances, read my detailed story on @indyurdu shortly pic.twitter.com/ZfARwm8zHL

— Amar Guriro (@amarguriro) June 14, 2019

“We are trying to mobilise and unite them”, Edhi added in the interview.

Others termed the anti-encroachment campaign as selective to target an esteemed organisation like Edhi.

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari in a series of tweets grilled ruling party for its dismal record when it comes to such drives.

I have the mandate of the people of this provinces. I hold my head in shame that we have been unable to protect the poor and the helpless from this heartless so called anti-encroachment drive. What does it say about us that not even Edhi’s legacy is secure in Naya Pakistan? 1/3 https://t.co/B15DLg4z4M

— BilawalBhuttoZardari (@BBhuttoZardari) June 15, 2019

“I’ve demanded Sindh Govt pass legislation mandating relocation, rehabilitation & compensation take place BEFORE any eviction. Also to explore all legislative options to protect to protect Karachi’s poor & vulnerable. To protect Karachi’s cultural & historical heritage. It’s living heritage. Will also be stepping up work with all stake holders on a feasible, practical & progressive master plan for Sindh’s capital”, Bhutto added.