The Supreme Court has ordered a report to be submitted within the next 2 months regarding the completion of both phases related to the rehabilitation of affected individuals in Gagar, Orangi, and Mahmoodabad nullahs to ensure certainty in the implementation process.
A two-member bench consisting of Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar and Justice Arfan Saadat Khan heard the petition regarding the rehabilitation of affected individuals in Gagar, Orangi, and Mahmoodabad nullahs. The Chief Secretary of Sindh, Advocate General Sindh, Commissioner Karachi, Deputy Commissioners, and others were present in the court.
The court inquired about the progress made so far from the parties involved. The Advocate General Sindh informed that they have written a letter to the Pakistan Engineering Council. Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar remarked that they want a representative from each authority to be involved in this matter to ensure accountability. They want to ensure that there are no disputes later regarding the allotment of land and funds.
The court also asked if any of the affected individuals wanted to be represented. Advocate Faisal Siddiqui stated that he did not want to be a representative as he is representing a civic organization involved in the case.
The court directed that a representative of the affected individuals be appointed, and if they are not willing, they should contact the Commissioner’s office. The court also asked the officers about the inclusion of certain individuals in the list of affected persons.
During the hearing, tensions arose between the Advocate General and the lawyers representing the affected individuals. The court advised all parties to resolve the matter peacefully.
The court instructed that the matter be finalized and further actions for the rehabilitation of affected individuals be initiated within the next 2 weeks. The court also emphasized the need for coordination with the civic organization’s head for consultation.
The Advocate General informed the court about the estimate for the construction of a house, and the court remarked that they cannot leave everything to the civic organization.
During the hearing, the court reprimanded representatives of the affected individuals for attempting to disrupt the proceedings. The court reiterated the need to resolve the matter peacefully and asked all parties to cooperate.
The court instructed that they were not ready to handle the matter at present and would address it the next day. The court also advised the parties to cooperate in resolving the issue.