Illegal Food Street in Karachi Service Road to Be Removed, the Sindh High Court (SHC) announced on February 09, 2026. The court declared the commercial activity on the service road illegal, citing traffic flow disruption and public safety concerns. Authorities confirmed that the Korangi food stalls, consisting of 144 makeshift shops, must be removed immediately.
The decision came after petitioner counsel Haseeb Jamali argued that service roads are essential for smooth traffic flow. He highlighted human safety risks and encroachment on roads caused by the illegal food street. The court instructed the Ministry of Local Government Affairs, Town Nazim Korangi, and the Deputy Commissioner to submit a detailed report within two weeks.
Local authorities, including AC Saddar Rana Safiyan, have already conducted inspections. Past incidents, like the Gul Plaza fire, which claimed over 70 lives, emphasize the importance of fire safety. Many makeshift shops on the service road operated with heavy-duty gas cylinders, creating fire safety violations. Workers obstructed walkways and stored chemical thinners without protection, creating serious human safety risks.
The town administration claimed the street was for public facilitation, but the court rejected this argument, stressing commercial activity restrictions on service roads. Experts believe relocation of the food street will improve traffic flow and reduce accidents in Korangi. Authorities plan a building inspection in Karachi to ensure compliance and prevent future violations.
Local businesses face challenges, but the move aims to balance public convenience with legal safety standards. Vendors will need alternative arrangements for their stalls, while citizens can expect safer streets. The Sindh High Court decision reinforces the city’s commitment to enforcing rules and protecting residents from hazards like gas cylinder risks and illegal encroachments.
