Sindh Launches Major Digital Reform: SBCA Sets One-Month Deadline to Automate All Construction Permits

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The Government of Sindh has announced a significant step toward modernizing its urban governance system as the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) moves to fully automate all four categories of construction permits within one month.

According to a statement issued by the Directorate of Press Information, the initiative marks a major milestone in the province’s ongoing digital transformation agenda aimed at improving transparency, efficiency, and public service delivery in the construction sector.

Sindh Minister for Local Government, Housing & Town Planning, Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, said that SBCA is rapidly evolving into a modern, technology-driven regulatory body through backend automation, digital integration, and institutional reforms. He said the initiative follows the successful launch of the Single Window Facility in Karachi and Hyderabad and now extends to full digitalization of permit processing systems.

The minister emphasized that the reforms are aligned with the vision of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and under the leadership of Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah. He said the government is committed to building efficient, accountable, and citizen-friendly institutions through technology-based governance.

As part of the reforms, SBCA has integrated its systems with the Sindh Business One Stop Shop (SBOSS), enabling a unified digital platform for construction approvals. The formal User Acceptance Test (UAT) between SBCA and SBOSS has already been completed, marking a key step toward full operationalization.

The upgraded system will allow online applications, e-payment of challans, real-time tracking, SMS alerts, digital certificates, and automated approvals. Officials say this will significantly reduce delays, eliminate manual interference, and improve transparency in the entire approval process.

The minister further revealed that SBCA is also preparing to extend automation to all regional offices across Sindh, ensuring uniform regulatory standards and improved service delivery province-wide.

In addition, SBCA is collaborating with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to implement Green Building Codes, promoting energy efficiency, sustainable construction, and environmentally responsible urban development.

Syed Nasir Hussain Shah praised SBCA officials, including the DG SBCA and IT leadership, for completing key milestones within the given timeline and said these reforms will strengthen public trust and improve governance in the construction sector.

He reiterated that the Sindh government will continue supporting all initiatives that promote transparency, sustainable urban growth, and better public services.

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