KARACHI: The Karachi administration has unveiled new standard operating procedures (SOPs) for roadside hotels and tea houses to curb encroachments, blockages on footpaths, and traffic congestion across the city. The guidelines come after a major crackdown on October 27, during which 255 establishments were sealed for illegally occupying public spaces.
Under the new SOPs, roads in Karachi have been divided into three categories, with strict limits on the area hotels and chai dhabas can occupy. The final approval of allotted spaces will involve verification by traffic police, confirmation by the Mukhtar-kar, and recommendations from the town officer. The relevant Deputy Commissioner will issue the official NOC for compliance.
Sealed establishments have begun to be de-sealed after owners submitted sworn affidavits promising adherence to the new rules. A committee led by Additional Commissioner Ghulam Mehdi Shah approved the de-sealing of multiple hotels and tea houses, ensuring they operate within the prescribed guidelines.
The Commissioner emphasized that the SOPs aim to maintain unobstructed movement for pedestrians and vehicles throughout Karachi. Any violation of the affidavit will result in strict action, including re-sealing of the establishment. Hotel associations and owners have pledged to fully implement the updated rules.
This initiative seeks to prevent future large-scale encroachments, improve traffic flow, and enhance public convenience in the city.