The federal government has launched a detailed review of Islamabad’s real estate regulatory framework aimed at improving transparency, protecting property rights and strengthening public confidence in the property sector.
The review is focused on the existing Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) framework and potential changes to its legal, regulatory and institutional structure.
Federal Minister for Law, Justice and Human Rights Azam Nazeer Tarar chaired a high-level meeting to review the framework. Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Mohammad Aurangzeb, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner Islamabad retired Lt Sohail Ashraf, and senior government officials attended the meeting.
Government Seeks More Transparent Real Estate Regulation
During the meeting, officials stressed the need for a more effective and transparent mechanism to regulate Islamabad’s rapidly developing real estate sector.
The participants reviewed the existing RERA structure, its implementation, the responsibilities of relevant institutions and possible options for improving the regulatory system.
A subcommittee comprising representatives from the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Law and Justice and the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has been formed to examine the available legal and institutional options.
The committee has been given 20 days to submit its report, after which further decisions on the proposed regulatory framework are expected.
Focus on Property Rights and Affordable Housing
The proposed reforms are aimed at strengthening property rights, improving accountability and providing greater regulatory protection to citizens.
Tarar said Islamabad requires stronger regulatory and institutional mechanisms to develop the federal capital as a model city. He emphasized that protecting citizens’ property rights and safeguarding the wider public interest would remain key priorities during the reform process.
The meeting also discussed affordable housing and access to housing finance. Tarar noted that a clear and effective legal framework could support low-cost housing initiatives and make property ownership more accessible to citizens.
Digitisation of Land Records Under Review
The digitisation of land records was also highlighted as an important part of the proposed reforms.
Finance Minister Mohammad Aurangzeb stressed that improved transparency and digital land records could help strengthen confidence among banks, investors and the general public.
A more reliable digital record system could also make property transactions easier to verify and help reduce disputes related to ownership and land records.
Stakeholder Consultations Expected
Further consultations are expected to involve the federal government, CDA, private-sector representatives and other relevant stakeholders before any major changes are finalized.
For property buyers, investors and developers in Islamabad, the proposed reforms could eventually lead to a clearer, more transparent and accountable real estate regulatory environment.
The 20-day review by the subcommittee is expected to provide the government with recommendations on how Islamabad’s RERA framework can be strengthened and better aligned with the city’s future housing and real estate needs.
