The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is accelerating development work across Islamabad, with Chairman CDA Sohail Ashraf directing officials to ensure the timely completion of the Islamabad Expressway Service Road East Project while maintaining high construction standards.
During his visit to the project site, the chairman reviewed ongoing construction activities and received a briefing on progress, completed work, and the next phase of development.
He emphasized the project’s importance in improving road connectivity, easing traffic congestion, enhancing traffic flow, and strengthening Islamabad’s road network. He also directed the project team to follow approved designs, technical specifications, and construction standards, while ensuring regular field monitoring, effective quality control, and appropriate traffic management to minimize inconvenience for commuters.
Additional Deputy Commissioner (General), Islamabad, the concerned Assistant Commissioner, and CDA officials were also present during the visit.
CDA Intensifies Action Against Illegal Construction
During the visit, the chairman was briefed on enforcement operations targeting illegal construction, unauthorized commercial activities, and violations of land-use and building control regulations along Islamabad Expressway East.
The operation is being conducted by CDA’s Building Control Section and Enforcement Directorate in coordination with the District Administration and Islamabad Police.
According to the briefing, 377 structures, including 281 commercial buildings, have been identified for enforcement action. So far, 58 buildings have been sealed, including 34 in Sohan Iqbal Town and 24 in the areas of Korang Bridge, Korang Police Station, and Gulberg Greens.
Additionally, 124 structures between Sohan and Khanna Pul have been identified for demolition, with demolition activities already underway.
The violations include unauthorized construction, non-conforming land use, construction without approval, and failure to comply with mandatory fire-safety requirements. Notices were issued to the relevant owners and occupants before enforcement action was taken against those who failed to address the violations within the prescribed period.
CDA Recovers Over Rs250 Million in Enforcement Charges
Officials informed the chairman that approximately Rs250.59 million had been recovered through enforcement operations. The recoveries relate to land-use conversion charges, unauthorized construction, and de-sealing charges involving commercial buildings, plazas, hospitals, marriage halls, and other establishments.
A further Rs3 billion remains recoverable under applicable regulations for land-use conversion, unauthorized construction, and violations involving setbacks, Floor Area Ratio (FAR), and covered areas.
The chairman directed the relevant departments to ensure consistent and uninterrupted enforcement of building control regulations, land-use policies, and mandatory fire-safety standards.
He stressed that illegal construction and unauthorized activities would not be allowed to compromise public safety, planned development, or the orderly expansion of the federal capital.
CDA Reaffirms Commitment to Islamabad’s Development
The CDA chairman reiterated his commitment to accelerating infrastructure projects, maintaining construction quality, enforcing planning regulations, and improving public facilities across Islamabad.
The ongoing development and enforcement initiatives are aimed at strengthening road infrastructure, improving traffic management, enhancing public safety, and supporting the city’s growth as a modern and well-planned capital.
