Kaukab Iqbal, Chairman of the Consumers Association of Pakistan, welcomed the Federal Constitutional Court’s decision to lift the ban on converting residential plots into commercial use in Karachi, describing it as a historic move for the city’s development and business growth. He emphasized that this decision could boost property values and create new investment opportunities.

Iqbal urged the government to introduce strict regulations for builders, similar to Dubai’s property laws, to protect consumer investments. He proposed that all property bookings should go through government institutions and that builders should deposit a security amount before launching projects to safeguard buyers.

He highlighted the rise of real estate fraud in Karachi and called for a regulatory authority to oversee all stages of property transactions. Additionally, he insisted on establishing clear laws governing the conversion of residential areas to prevent commercial encroachments.

To address consumer issues, Iqbal announced the formation of a committee to resolve delays in property delivery and the opening of a Property Complaint Center on Tariq Road for direct consumer complaints. He concluded with a warning to builders not to deceive consumers, assuring them of CAP’s support in protecting their rights.