Supreme Court mandates immediate removal of road and pavement encroachments

The Supreme Court has issued a directive to clear encroachments from roads and pavements within a strict timeframe of three days.

The written verdict of the encroachments case, delivered at the Karachi Registry, mandates both federal and provincial authorities to swiftly execute the court’s orders. Additionally, the court has tasked the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) with disseminating a public service message to raise awareness about the importance of this issue.

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, the verdict underscored the unfortunate acceptance of encroachments on public spaces, including sidewalks and green areas in front of private properties. The court decried the installation of generators on pavements and noted the complicity of both federal and provincial governments in perpetuating encroachments.

Furthermore, the verdict emphasized that no entity possesses the authority to impede the unhindered movement of citizens. In upholding the principles of public accessibility and safety, the Supreme Court’s ruling reflects a commitment to preserving the fundamental rights of individuals to navigate freely within their communities.

Shaheer Gul Khan is a final-year student of English Literature at Government College University (GCU) Lahore. Strives to create a challenging and engaging environment having editor skills in freelancing, a goal-oriented. He can be reached at Twitter @HafizShaheerGu1.