KARACHI, Feb 22: The NGOs based in Lines Area have demanded regularisation and grant of lease to inhabitants of the area through the process of upgradation instead of redevelopment, process.

In a moot organised by Lines Area Rehabilitation Society, the representatives of non governmental organisation (NGOs) observed that in the 25 years since the inception of Lines Area Redevelopment Project (Larp), numerous social and technical problems have emerged. Moreover, the Larp, has become unworkable.

The meeting which was presided by former Union Nazim, Mehfooz-un-Nabi Khan also urged that the concerned authorities restore the original status of the old Grammer School Ground in Tunisia Line and withdraw the allotment of Z.C. plots along the road side of the ramp of F.T.C Flyover in order to ensure a healthy environment for the residents of the area and also to cater to the future needs of expansion of roads forever increasing vehicular traffic flow in heart of the city.

The speakers at the meeting expressed concern over the illegal restoration of 317 fake allotments by Larp and the unauthorised waiver of heavy amount of Non Utilisation fee (NUF) recoverable from defaulters of dues.

They said this had caused substantial financial loss of millions of rupees to the exchequer. They further demanded that the eligibility of some 200 recent allotments be cancelled and unauthorised alteration in the planning also be withdrawn.

In his remarks, Mehfoozun Nabi Khan said that Lines Area Redevelopment Project Government Karachi (CDGK), and therefore, all type of “eligibility” for A, B and C categories of plots be determined by locally elected representatives in the CDGK. The public represent the area in LARP both legally and morally.

A Lines Area Action Committee comprising of representatives of NGOs was also formed on the occasion.—By Our Reporter