KARACHI: The district administration on Thursday sealed the illegally constructed petrol pump on the premises of the University of Karachi (KU) after it was found to be operating despite the cancellation of its no-objection certificate (NOC) by the authorities.

A KU official told Dawn that even though its NOC had already been cancelled by the East deputy commissioner on January 19, Haifz Petrol Pump — constructed illegally on the university’s land near the Kaneez Fatima Society — was inaugurated and fuel sales had begun on Jan 22. The matter was reported to higher authorities, which prompted swift action by the East DC, on whose orders the fuel station was sealed with immediate effect.

The petrol pump would soon be demolished and the land would be restored to its original condition, the official said and added that the mechanism for this is being devised. Police and other relevant departments have also been informed, while the district administration would take further legal action, he explained.

The official also shared that similar action would also be taken against Awami Petrol Pump, which is another illegal fuel station built on the university’s land on the Main University Road.

Influential persons have been attempting to illegally occupy KU land and the varsity administration is pursuing legal action against the land grabbers.

Published in Dawn, January 23rd, 2026