Urban Encroachment and Governance Failure: Legal and Environmental Implications of Informal Settlements in Karachi

Abstract

One of the urban problems in Karachi is illegal encroachment, which interferes with city planning, infrastructure, and the environment. The uncontrolled increase in population,  rural migration, and poor governance have contributed to the proliferation of illegal settlements, roadside stalls, and the development of unlawful construction on public and government property. These intrusions obstruct roads, diminish social areas, and overload the basic amenities like water, electricity, and garbage disposal. Despite the anti-encroachment drives by the authorities, the issue has remained a problem because of corruption and interference by the political actors, as well as the coordination failure among departments. In addition, the eviction activities usually impact the low-income neighborhoods, which is socially and humanitarian problematic. The sustainable solution would involve equal application of urban laws, better land management systems, and affordable housing for people experiencing poverty. Illegal encroachment is a major issue that needs to be addressed to bring back the Karachi city structure, environmental security, and to offer a structured and habitable city to the expanding Karachi population.