Pakistani architect Arif Hasan on low income settlement projects
Pakistani architect and town planner Arif Hasan is well known for his involvement in designing low-income settlement programmes, for which he has set up an independent initiative in Karachi. He talks to SHAHID HUSAIN about various aspects of Karachi's development
On flaws with Karachi's master plan: It was formulated without any detailed background study. There is confusion regarding land-use plans, housing parameters, transport and other housing-related issues. Besides, the state as well as the city district government's present projects needed to be included in the plan. Town Planning officials carried out an extensive review by talking to various people to sort out the confusion. But the absence of a background study has affected implementation.
On alternative master plan: I haven't presented an alternative plan. I have been misreported by the press. I support the authorities' master plan as far as concepts are concerned.My only problem with the master plan is that it doesn't have any perspective on huge