ISLAMABAD: Authorities have initiated action against nine housing schemes in Islamabad after finding that land designated for public facilities was allegedly converted into residential and commercial plots in violation of approved layout plans.
According to a written response from the Ministry of Interior submitted to the National Assembly, the schemes were found to have used land originally reserved for facilities such as schools, hospitals, parks, playgrounds and other public amenities for private development.
CDA Issues Notices to Housing Schemes
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has issued notices to the housing schemes and initiated proceedings over the alleged changes in land use.
However, progress has been affected by legal proceedings. Sponsors and residents of some of the affected schemes have approached the courts and obtained stay orders, limiting the authorities’ ability to proceed with further action until the relevant cases are decided.
350 Kanals Reportedly Converted
The ministry’s response also highlighted the Civilian Employees Cooperative Housing Society, where approximately 350 kanals of land reportedly reserved for parks and public buildings was converted into residential and commercial plots.
The matter has a long legal history. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) registered a case against the society’s management in 2010 in connection with the alleged land-use violations.
An FIA court later acquitted the accused on January 13, 2024. The CDA subsequently challenged the acquittal before the Islamabad High Court, where the appeal remains pending.
Legal Proceedings Continue
The developments highlight the regulatory challenges involved when land reserved for public amenities is altered through housing schemes. While the CDA has started action against the identified schemes, court proceedings and stay orders could determine the pace and eventual outcome of enforcement measures.
For prospective property buyers, the situation also underscores the importance of checking a housing scheme’s approved layout plan, land-use status, NOC and regulatory approvals before purchasing residential or commercial property.
