ISLAMABAD: Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry has acknowledged delays in compensation for some people affected by development projects in Islamabad’s E-12 and C-16 sectors, saying Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi would hear their concerns.
The issue was raised during a National Assembly session on Thursday through a calling-attention notice regarding the reported demolition of houses and cemeteries without compensation. Chaudhry responded by outlining the government’s position on sector development, plot possession, and land-related disputes.
The minister said several sectors in Islamabad had been allotted over the years without timely development. He added that a dedicated member had been appointed to the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to oversee sector development and allotment matters.
According to Chaudhry, possession had been handed over for 90% of plots in E-12, while development and allotment work in C-16, initiated in 2008, had largely been completed.
He also raised concerns about changes in the number of houses in C-16, claiming that the number had increased from around 1,000 when the sector was taken over to more than 3,000 later. He suggested that some construction may have been undertaken to seek compensation, although the statement does not establish the circumstances of individual cases.
Addressing concerns about burial grounds, the minister said E-12 contained eight cemeteries and that the graves had been protected. He also alleged that around 150 unauthorised housing schemes had sold land designated for public facilities, including schools and parks.
The matter highlights continuing challenges involving land acquisition, compensation, and urban development in Islamabad. Further clarification from the relevant authorities will be important for affected residents seeking details about compensation claims and the status of their properties.
