KDA moves to digitise land records, introduce barcode-based file tracking

KARACHI: The Karachi Development Authority (KDA) is moving to fully digitise its land records and introduce a barcode-based file tracking system as part of efforts to improve transparency, strengthen monitoring and facilitate citizens in accessing property-related information. The development came during a meeting between KDA Director General Asif Jan Siddiqui and a delegation of the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP), led by its member Bushra Naz Malik, here at the Civic Centre on Wednesday. The meeting discussed institutional matters, issues of mutual interest and measures aimed at promoting transparency and a fair competitive environment, with particular emphasis on protecting citizens’ interests in land-related matters. Bushra Naz Malik briefed the KDA Director General on the CCP’s mandate and responsibilities. The commission’s core objective was to promote fair and healthy competition, prevent anti-competitive practices and safeguard consumer interests. She said the CCP was taking measures to protect the rights and interests of ordinary citizens and would continue to play its role in creating greater public awareness and addressing grievances relating to land matters. Siddiqui, in turn, briefed the delegation on KDA’s ongoing efforts to modernise its land management system and connect citizens’ land records with a computerised and digital framework. He said available KDA records were being digitised in phases, while mechanisms were also being developed for effective and direct monitoring of ongoing processes in the land department. ?”All records will ultimately be maintained as a secure digital archive, ” Siddiqui said, adding that the system would enable citizens to access information about their properties and relevant records remotely. The initiative, he said, would not only provide greater convenience to citizens but also help preserve institutional records, improve transparency and reduce the scope for delays and irregularities in the handling of land-related cases. The KDA chief said a modern file-tracking mechanism would also be introduced using barcode technology to ensure timely movement and processing of files. Under the proposed system, the movement of files would be electronically monitored, allowing officials to track cases, identify delays and ensure timely action on land-related matters. Siddiqui welcomed the information shared by the CCP delegation and stressed that transparency, merit and fair competition were essential pillars of an effective and credible institutional system. The meeting was also attended by CCP Assistant Director Amin Akbar, KDA Member Finance Naveed Anwar Siddiqui, KDA Secretary Muhammad Arshad Khan, Additional Director Land Rashid Hussain and Additional Director Recovery Muhammad Zubair. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

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