KARACHI — The managing body of the Outdoor Advertising Trade Association Sindh (OATAS) has raised serious concerns over the recent directive issued by the Commissioner Karachi regarding billboard sizes, according to an association announcement issued on October 24, 2026.
An emergency meeting of the OATAS managing body was held at the camp office of Senior Vice President Ahmad Hussain, chaired by Association President Rahat Muhammad Ali. The meeting was attended by Vice President Muhammad Ali, General Secretary Syed Yasir Ali, Joint Secretary Usman-uz-Zaman, and Executive Member Ashraf Omar.
The participants reviewed the Commissioner Karachi's letter specifying dimensions of 30x90 feet for rooftop billboards and 20x60 feet for ground-mounted advertising sites. According to the association, Senior Vice President Ahmad Hussain has initiated contact with Sindh Minister for Local Government Syed Nasir Hussain Shah to schedule a meeting, while a formal request has been made to Commissioner Karachi Hassan Naqvi for a meeting on Monday.
Furthermore, the association approved sending a formal letter to the Chief Secretary Sindh regarding the proposed size restrictions. The managing body also decided to approach chairmen of various town municipal corporations to seek the approval of relevant resolutions. The association noted that Jinnah Town council has already passed a resolution on the matter, and efforts will continue with other town councils to protect industry interests.
During the meeting, final preparations for the launch of the Skill Technical Institute were reviewed, with members expressing satisfaction over the arrangements. The managing body also discussed participation in the upcoming PAS & WOO Out of Home Conference to ensure effective representation and professional networking for the outdoor advertising sector.
Reporting by Bloom Pakistan and Dawn in October 2026 highlights a crackdown and removal orders issued in Karachi against illegal billboards. These reports provide background context on regulatory actions regarding outdoor advertising in the city. They do not independently verify the statements, meetings, disputed dimensions, totals, or legal interpretations of the Out of Door Advertising Trade Association Sindh (OATAS).
