Weddings Get Pricier in Karachi as KMC Slaps New Taxes on Banquet Halls
KARACHI: If you’re planning a wedding in Karachi, prepare for a costlier celebration. The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) has rolled out a new tax policy on wedding halls, with charges reaching up to Rs. 30,000, depending on the size and scale of the event.
Under the new structure, the tax will vary based on factors such as:
- Number of guests
- Live cooking arrangements
- Parking availability
- Level of decoration or beautification
The charges are not uniform across the city. Areas like Korangi and Malir will see slightly reduced rates, reflecting economic differences across districts.
This taxation initiative, launched in accordance with the Sindh Local Government Act of 2013, aims to regulate the event industry, ensure compliance with municipal rules, and generate revenue for urban development.
KMC officials argue the step will enhance oversight, promote safety standards, and encourage wedding halls to operate legally and transparently.
However, for Karachiites, especially during peak wedding seasons, this new policy could put additional financial pressure on families already navigating rising costs.
If you want to have a wedding in Karachi, be prepared to spend more than you might elsewhere. The KMC has introduced a new policy for taxing wedding halls, with charges going up to Rs. 30,000 depending on the event.
The structure of the tax consists of factors such as:
Number of people expected for the event
Having food prepared in front of guests.
Parking availability
How ornately a place is decorated
Rates for fares vary from one location to another. Rates in Korangi and Malir will decline somewhat because the economies in these parts differ from others.
The goals of this effort include regulating events, guaranteeing compliance with local government rules and generating cash for urban improvements.
They believe that by introducing background checks, weddings in KMC will be safe and follow the law.
Many Karachiites might struggle with the new policy, as wedding seasons coincide with a spike in everyday costs.
