In a significant move towards sustainable urban development, Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal has directed the Capital Development Authority (CDA) chairman to begin vertical housing projects in Islamabad. This initiative aims to discourage the construction of large bungalows that occupy multiple acres of horizontal land.
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Chairing a progress review meeting with members of the Public Private Partnership Authority and relevant ministries on Tuesday, Iqbal highlighted the need for a housing shift in Islamabad. Following the Prime Minister’s directives to identify and utilize state properties under the public-private partnership model, Iqbal instructed the CDA chairman to develop and implement a policy framework for high-rise housing in the city’s sectors.
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“Pakistan cannot afford to continue expanding horizontally to meet residential and commercial needs,” stated the minister. “We must prioritize vertical housing to protect our green spaces, ensure food security, and provide affordable housing shift for all, especially the denied segments of our society.”
He further highlighted that vertical housing and commercial activities will not only make housing more affordable but also safeguard the environment and food security. Iqbal directed the CDA chairman to study leading metropolises such as Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Beijing, and Shanghai to learn from their best practices and incorporate them into Islamabad’s plan.
The minister urged the CDA chairman to present a policy framework on vertical housing shift as soon as possible, which can later be modeled across the country. This initiative represents a significant shift towards sustainable urban development in Pakistan, prioritizing the needs of the people and the environment.
Additionally, Iqbal instructed the CDA chairman to build a modern, state-of-the-art National Library. He highlighted the importance of holding an international competition of architects to create an innovative concept for the library in Islamabad. “The library must serve as an ideal public space where youth can not only learn and grow but also engage in healthy debates, which will gradually help reduce polarization in society,” the minister said.
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