ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has drafted new regulations for informal settlements in Islamabad. The proposed rules aim to create a legal framework for their documentation, improvement, redevelopment and relocation.
The draft regulations are called the Islamabad Capital Territory Urban Regeneration/Renewal (Improvement, Upgradation and Relocation) Regulations. They are currently under consideration by the CDA. The draft has also been placed before the Federal Constitutional Court.
The proposed framework would cover several types of action. These include documenting informal settlements and improving existing areas. It would also provide a framework for redevelopment or relocation where required in the public interest.
Some informal settlements in Islamabad have previously received recognition from the federal government or the CDA. The new regulations seek to provide a more coordinated approach to dealing with such settlements.
The CDA said the draft was prepared in connection with court directions. These directions relate to low-cost and social housing for people living in slum areas. They also cover housing needs of homeless people.
The authority has submitted reports to the court on the matter. It has also communicated its position through the Ministry of Housing and Works.
However, the CDA has clarified that its existing legal framework has limits. The CDA Ordinance, 1960, does not allow the regularisation or resettlement of unauthorized occupants on state land.
The authority said the ordinance gives it powers related to land management. It also allows the CDA to frame regulations for the preparation and implementation of Islamabad’s master plan.
The proposed regulations are still at the consideration stage. Any future improvement or relocation plan would depend on the approval of the draft rules and the decisions of the relevant authorities.
