The Bahria Icon Tower is a stunning skyscraper located in Clifton, Karachi. It has captured attention because of its ambitious design and towering presence. Standing as the tallest building in Pakistan and one of the tallest in South Asia. The architectural masterpiece is a testament to the grandeur and aspirations of the Bahria Town Group.
Graana.com will provide the details of the Bahria Icon Tower, exploring its history, design, and significance for Karachi.
History and Construction of Bahria Icon Tower
Construction on the tower commenced in 2009, igniting excitement and anticipation among residents of Karachi. One of the highlights of residing in Bahria Icon Tower is the breathtaking views it offers. From the panoramic vistas of the Arabian Sea to the stunning cityscape, each apartment will boast captivating scenery that will enchant residents day and night.
Design and Features
This architectural gem not only offers a breathtaking sight but also serves as a symbol of luxury and sophistication. Moreover, the Tower houses a meticulously curated collection of residential apartments, commercial spaces, and exclusive amenities that cater to the discerning needs of its occupants.
The Tower boasts a height of 300 metres (980 ft) and a total of 62 floors above ground, as well as 7 floors below ground. Subsequently, the tower is made of reinforced concrete, with an elegant glass facade that reflects the grandeur of its surroundings. It stands tall on a four-acre plot in Clifton, adjacent to the serene Bagh Ibne Qasim Park and the revered shrine of Abdullah Shah Ghazi.
The main building comprises 10 floors of serviced corporate offices and 40 floors of serviced apartments. Moreover, the tower features Pakistan’s highest-located terraced restaurant, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the city. A high-speed elevator ensures swift access to different levels within the tower, adding a touch of exclusivity to the experience.
A standout feature of the Icon Tower is the sprawling Mall of Karachi, which spans across eight floors. This shopping paradise promises a diverse range of retail outlets, boutiques, and entertainment facilities, catering to the discerning tastes of visitors. From high-end fashion brands to vibrant food courts and state-of-the-art cinemas, the Mall of Karachi aims to provide a complete and immersive shopping experience.
Luxurious Living Spaces
Each apartment in Icon Tower is meticulously designed to exude elegance and sophistication. With a variety of floor plans to choose from, residents can customise their living spaces to suit their individual preferences. High-end finishes, spacious layouts, and panoramic windows enhance the overall ambience, providing an oasis of tranquillity amidst the urban landscape.
Commercial Opportunities
Beyond its residential offerings, Icon Tower presents a host of commercial opportunities. Basically, entrepreneurs and businesses can capitalise on the tower’s prime location to establish their presence and thrive in an environment that fosters growth and success.
Significance and Impact
The Tower holds immense significance for Karachi, symbolising the city’s aspirations for growth, modernization, and architectural brilliance. Its commanding presence in the Clifton area serves as a visual landmark, captivating the imagination of locals and visitors alike. Once completed, the tower will not only be a source of pride for the city but will also contribute to its economic development.
The integration of corporate offices, residential apartments, and a vast shopping mall within the tower fosters a vibrant community and promotes a live-work-play lifestyle. The presence of premium office spaces will attract businesses and investment, further enhancing Karachi’s standing as a commercial hub. Moreover, the luxurious serviced apartments offer a sophisticated living experience, catering to the needs of discerning individuals and families.
Legal Roadblocks
The Bahria Icon Tower in Karachi, Pakistan is currently facing numerous legal challenges and controversies. The tower, owned by real estate mogul Malik Riaz Hussain’s Bahria Town Group, is Pakistan’s tallest building and was intended to be a multi-purpose residential and commercial structure. However, it has been embroiled in legal disputes since its inception.
One of the main issues surrounding the tower is the land on which it was constructed. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) initiated proceedings in 2019, claiming that the plot of land was originally an amenity plot meant for public welfare purposes and had been illegally sold to Bahria Town.
The plot was supposed to be allotted to a park near the shrine of Abdullah Shah Ghazi. The case revealed that government officials were involved in the illegal sale of the land.
Due to these legal challenges, the tower’s development has been put on hold since 2020. Bahria Group has been actively seeking a buyer for the project. However, finding a buyer has been difficult due to the tower’s multi-purpose nature and the ongoing court cases.
Banks that might be interested in buying it as an office building face challenges because of its mixed-use design. The tower’s size and Bahria Town’s reputation for cutting corners in build quality also present obstacles to selling the project.
The legal roadblocks have resulted in uncertainty about the future of the Bahria Icon Tower. Despite being the tallest building in Karachi and Pakistan, it is unclear when or if the tower will ever be completed or find a buyer. Moreover, the legal proceedings and controversies surrounding the tower have raised concerns about its impact on Karachi’s cultural heritage and the ecological deterioration of the Karachi seafront.
Conclusion
The Bahria Icon Tower, with its grand design and ambitious vision, stands as a testament to the aspirations and potential of Karachi. While the completion of this iconic structure has faced challenges and delays, it remains a symbol of the city’s resilience and determination.
Once it opens its doors to the public, it is sure to leave a lasting impression. It is not only known for its remarkable architecture but also for the positive impact it will have on the local community and the city’s economic landscape.
FAQs
What is the Bahria Icon Tower?
The Bahria Icon Tower is a skyscraper complex located in Clifton, Karachi, Pakistan. It consists of a 62-storey tower, which is the tallest building in Pakistan, and an adjacent 42-storey building.
Who owns the Bahria Icon Tower?
The Bahria Icon Tower is owned by the Bahria Town Group, a prominent real estate development company in Pakistan.
What are the key features of the Bahria Icon Tower?
The tower features 10 floors of serviced corporate offices, 40 floors of serviced apartments, a terraced restaurant with panoramic views, and a shopping mall spread across eight floors.
Where is the Bahria Icon Tower located?
The tower is located in the upscale Clifton area of Karachi, adjacent to the Bagh Ibne Qasim Park and the shrine of Abdullah Shah Ghazi.
When did the construction of the Bahria Icon Tower begin?
Construction on the tower began in 2009.
What is the expected completion date of the Bahria Icon Tower?
The tower was originally expected to be completed by March 2023. However, due to the current on-hold status, the exact completion date is uncertain.
What impact will the Bahria Icon Tower have on Karachi?
Once completed, the tower is expected to become a significant landmark, attracting tourists, businesses, and residents. It has the potential to contribute to the city’s tourism industry. Moreover, it will add value to the real estate market in Clifton.
How will the Bahria Icon Tower benefit the local community?
The tower’s presence will contribute to the local economy by generating employment opportunities and attracting businesses.
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