NAB Launches Formal Probe into Lyari Resettlement Project Amid Alleged Rs 8 Billion Irregularities

Pakistan’s National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has reportedly launched a formal investigation into the long-stalled Lyari Resettlement Project, with early findings pointing to alleged financial irregularities worth around Rs 8 billion.

According to investigative sources, the case—originally initiated in 2002 alongside the construction of the Lyari Expressway in Karachi—remained inactive for years before being reopened recently.

The project was designed to rehabilitate thousands of families displaced by the expressway construction. It was jointly funded by federal and provincial authorities and is now being described by some officials as one of South Asia’s largest resettlement initiatives.

Investigators allege that land originally reserved for public services such as hospitals, schools, and parks was illegally converted into residential plots and sold through fraudulent means, a practice commonly referred to as “China cutting.”

During recent raids, NAB teams reportedly seized more than 3,000 allotment files. Preliminary scrutiny suggests that around 65% of these files may involve fake allotments, despite carrying signatures of land department officials.

Sources further claim that powerful individuals previously obstructed progress in the case, but NAB has now formally moved into the investigative phase after completing preliminary inquiries.

Authorities have also placed six individuals on the Provisional National Identification List (PNIL) to prevent them from leaving the country. NAB’s executive board has reportedly authorized the investigation team to take all legal measures, including arrests if necessary.

The total alleged misappropriation currently stands at approximately Rs 8 billion, though officials believe further financial irregularities may emerge as the probe continues.

So far, no official press release has been issued by NAB, while land department officials have declined to comment, stating they have not received formal notification regarding the investigation.