Sindh withdraws notification restricting residential-to-commercial land conversion in Karachi

Karachi: The Sindh Master Plan Authority has withdrawn the notification that imposed an immediate restriction on converting residential land for commercial use in Karachi. The decision removes the 2019 notification introduced after Supreme Court orders issued in 2018 and 2019. However, the withdrawal does not mean residential properties can automatically be converted into commercial spaces. Any change of land use will still require compliance with relevant laws, master plans and approval from competent authorities. The decision was reportedly taken in line with a May 2026 order of the Federal Constitutional Court. The development could provide greater clarity for property owners and investors, while existing legal and regulatory requirements will continue to apply.