Investigation Ordered After Sale of Govt Land at a Rate of 10 Paisa Per Square Yard

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament has ordered an investigation into the Karachi Port Trust’s (KPT) allotment of 380 acres of land to two housing societies at the extremely low rate of 10 paisa per square yard. During a meeting of the PAC’s subcommittee, which was reviewing audit objections related to the Ministry of Maritime Affairs for the years 2010-11 and 2013-14, audit officials revealed that the land was allotted in 1996 and 2006. The land was originally designated for shipping and cargo activities, and no action has yet been taken against the officials involved in the allotment. Committee member Shahida Akhtar Ali questioned why and under what law such a large tract of land, 380 acres, was given away at just 10 paisa per square yard annually, calling the situation alarming. The Secretary for Maritime Affairs informed the committee that the matter is currently in court. The Supreme Court has ruled that KPT land cannot be allotted for housing societies, and all records have been shared with audit authorities. He admitted the rate was indeed very low, explaining that the land was originally seabed and underwater. However, a stay order has been issued on the Supreme Court’s own decision. The KPT Chairman added that the land did not exist in its current form and had to be developed. The committee has now directed a fact-finding inquiry into the matter.