CS forms body to probe SBCA order to demolish heritage building

Sindh Chief Secretary Syed Asif Hyder Shah on Wednesday took notice of the Sindh Building Control Authority’s (SBCA) demolition order for a heritage building and formed a committee in this regard.

Officials said the inquiry committee has also been directed to examine under what circumstances and with what role the SBCA issued the demolition order, and why the culture department failed to report the matter in a timely manner.

Chief Secretary Shah took serious notice of the demolition order for the heritage building known as “Kharas House”, located at Plot No. FT-4/14, Bath Island Road, Frere Town Quarters, Clifton, Karachi.

He directed the Karachi commissioner to conduct a detailed inquiry into the matter and submit a comprehensive report within 72 hours. He further said that if any irregularities are found during the investigation, strict action must be taken against the responsible individuals and officials.

Secretary Culture, Tourism, Antiquities and Archives Department Khair Muhammad Kalwar and Director General Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) Ishaq Khuhro have been directed to fully assist the commissioner during the inquiry proceedings.

Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah expressed grave concern over the incident and emphasized that the protection of cultural and historical heritage is of utmost importance. He warned that any negligence or unlawful actions concerning heritage properties will not be tolerated and will be met with appropriate legal consequences.

Furthermore, the Chief Secretary instructed the Secretary Culture to initiate the mapping of all heritage buildings in Karachi and to upgrade the vigilance mechanisms to prevent any future violations or unauthorized demolitions.

As per order issued by CS Office reads, “Please find a complaint and Note regarding demolition of subject building, in violation of heritage laws, received from Secretary Culture, Tourism, Antiquities and Archives Department.

This office is seriously concerned if any laws/rules were violated / circumvented in the instant case. In order to ascertain the factual position, you are assigned to hold a thorough inquiry into the matter and submit a detailed report within 72 hours. The Report shall clearly delineate the acts of violation and persons/officers responsible for the same”.