Commissioner launches city-wide drive to reclaim public spaces from tea stalls and food joints
KARACHI — The city’s famous late-night tea spots and fast-food hangouts long considered Karachi’s social lifeline are now facing a sweeping crackdown, as Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi has ordered an all-out operation against eateries occupying roads and footpaths.
Acting on his directives, deputy commissioners across all six districts South, East, Central, Malir, Korangi, and Keamari launched coordinated operations on Wednesday night to clear public spaces from roadside setups, including chairs, tables, and counters that had become a permanent feature of the city’s nightlife.
In District Central, several popular joints such as New Quetta Bismillah Hotel, Zahid Jamalo Hotel, Daniyal BBQ, and Baithak Ice Cream were among those targeted in areas like Nazimabad, Hyderi, and Liaquatabad. Officials in Gulberg Subdivision removed outdoor furniture, stools, and counters from 15 eateries along the Ayesha Manzil–Mukka Chowk stretch, saying the encroachments were disrupting both pedestrian movement and traffic flow.
The crackdown extended to three roadside hotels near Super Market, Liaquatabad, and multiple stalls near Buffer Zone Degree College, where authorities confiscated furniture and other items placed on public land. Similar operations were carried out in Kiryana Market and Liaquatabad No. 10, with several roadside setups dismantled.
In District South, the administration sealed two tea stalls near PIDC and cleared encroachments on Nishtar Road, Burns Road, Mansfield Street, and Dr. Daud Pota Road. The drive also covered Shahrah-e-Iraq, where carts and counters were removed.
District East saw teams clear footpaths from the Meteorological Department to Safoora, and Hassan Square to Essa Nagri, removing dozens of illegal setups. In Malir, unauthorised structures near Hadeed Market and Steel Town were demolished, while a similar drive in Model Colony led to the sealing of an auto shop and registration of FIRs against violators. Over in Shah Faisal Town, more than 100 stalls and 20 cabins were removed, and in Keamari, operations in the SITE area cleared Manghopir and Masan Roads of encroachments.
Officials confirmed that all confiscated goods will remain in government custody until legal proceedings are completed. “The use of public pathways for private business will not be tolerated,” the commissioner’s office said in a statement, stressing that the campaign will continue until all public spaces are reclaimed.
Authorities have also warned repeat offenders of strict legal action, underscoring the government’s resolve to restore order on Karachi’s overcrowded streets and ensure smooth traffic flow across the metropolis.
