KARACHI, June 18: The overdue New Malir Housing Scheme No.1 was formally launched here on Monday after a four-year land controversy.

The project had been prepared by the Malir Development Authority a few years back. Work on the project was delayed due to a land dispute between the MDA and other agencies.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the project, City Nazim Naimatullah Khan said the pace of development activities would be accelerated in the area with the execution of the scheme.

He said the government planned to construct schools, colleges university and hospitals in the adjoining areas of the project and urged the MDA officials to expedite the work on the project.

Earlier, MDA Director-General Abdul Jalil said the allotment of plots would be made soon by issuing challans and assured the people that their investment was secure.