KARACHI – The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has initiated an inquiry into the alleged illegal issuance of no-objection certificates (NOCs) for marriage halls and marquees in Karachi and sought a detailed report from the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) regarding alleged violations and regulatory action.
The sources said that the inquiry was launched following complaints about the approval and operation of marriage halls and marquees, as well as the construction of commercial structures on amenity plots in different parts of the city.
In a letter addressed to the SBCA chief, NAB directed the authority to provide details of alleged violations, any financial loss caused to the national exchequer and the reasons for not taking action against unauthorized constructions and operations. The bureau also referred to earlier requests for information that had reportedly not received a response.
The development comes amid growing concerns among residents and urban planning experts over increasing commercialization in residential areas of Karachi. Critics argue that unchecked commercial activity could place additional pressure on civic infrastructure, worsen traffic congestion and create environmental challenges in the city.
An SBCA spokesperson said the authority had started a survey across Karachi to collect data on allegedly illegal marriage halls and marquees. He said information was being gathered from all districts and a comprehensive report would be prepared and shared with the relevant authorities after completion of the exercise.
Meanwhile, representatives of the marriage hall industry welcomed the inquiry and called for action against unauthorized operators.
Rana Raees Ahmed, President of the All Karachi Marriage Hall, Lawn and Banquet Owners Association, alleged that around 200 unauthorized ballrooms were operating on the ground and mezzanine floors of multi-storey buildings. He expressed concern over the lack of proper safety measures, including emergency exits, at such facilities.
Ahmed said the association, which represents around 800 registered marriage halls and banquet businesses, supported NAB’s investigation and urged authorities to focus on illegal constructions while protecting the interests of law-abiding businesses.
The inquiry is expected to examine the legality of approvals granted for marriage halls and the use of amenity plots for commercial purposes, while assessing the role of the relevant regulatory authorities in monitoring such developments.
