THE authorities in Sukkur have commenced an anti-encroachment drive which is a praiseworthy step. However, one question remains unanswered: are there any development plans for the recovered land?

A similar operation against encroachment was conducted a few years ago, but no development has been seen for years. The demolished infrastructure included many shops which supported city’s small businesses, but now the land lies barren where stray dogs wander around. Multiple shops have been demolished by the ongoing anti-encroachment drive. A private hospital, which caters to people from the interior of Sindh is also said to be on the list.

There is no denying that the construction of infrastructure on government land is illegal, but the action must be taken when such encroachments are cropping up. Also, after the drive, the land should be utilised for the betterment of citizens as soon as possible.

Ameer Hamza Abro
Rohri

Published in Dawn, December 8th, 2020