Mayor seeks land record in Hill Park dispute

Karachi: A land use dispute has emerged around properties surrounding Hill Park, prompting Mayor Karachi Murtaza Wahab to seek the complete land record from the federal government for review by city authorities. Officials say the Karachi Metropolitan administration is examining whether land originally reserved for public amenities, green areas, and parks has been encroached upon or absorbed into private development activity. The mayor has emphasized that protecting public-use land is essential for urban balance, environmental sustainability, and citizen access to open spaces. Planning experts note that any irregular use of parkland can weaken city infrastructure planning and public trust. The case has renewed debate over land governance, urban transparency, and the protection of civic spaces in Karachi.