The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has launched a comprehensive crackdown to curb the misuse of amenity plots in Islamabad. This decisive action is aimed at reclaiming and regulating lands designated for public welfare, such as parks, schools, and playgrounds, which have been exploited by private housing societies for commercial gains. The initiative underscores CDA’s commitment to restoring urban order and ensuring that the city’s development adheres to planning regulations.
CDA’s Strategic Move to Reclaim Public Lands
Under the leadership of CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa, a high-level meeting was convened to address the issue of misused amenity plots. During this meeting, the chairman directed the planning wing to create a detailed inventory of amenity plots that have been transferred to the CDA but remain outside its physical possession. This inventory will serve as the foundation for the civic body to take control of these plots and ensure their proper utilization.
To manage these reclaimed lands effectively, the CDA has established the Directorate of Estate Management III, which will oversee the administration of amenity plots. The primary objective of this initiative is to prevent private housing schemes from illegally selling or repurposing land meant for public use.
Unauthorized Activities by Private Housing Societies
Private housing societies are required by law to transfer land designated for public amenities to the CDA in order to secure a no-objection certificate (NOC) for their projects. However, multiple reports have revealed that some housing schemes have been flouting these regulations by selling or misusing these plots for private commercial purposes.
This rampant misuse has led to a shortage of essential facilities for residents and has compromised the city’s urban planning integrity. The CDA’s recent actions aim to halt these violations and hold non-compliant housing societies accountable for their activities.
Scale of the Issue
Islamabad currently hosts 65 approved housing schemes, several of which have not yet handed over amenity plots to the CDA. Moreover, more than 100 unauthorized housing societies are operating in the capital territory, further complicating the city’s regulatory landscape.
Monitoring and Mapping Unauthorized Societies
During the meeting, Chairman Randhawa also emphasized the importance of mapping unauthorized housing societies to determine whether they can be regularized. This process will involve thorough inspections and evaluations based on recommendations from the Master Plan Commission. For societies that cannot be regularized, CDA plans to take strict enforcement actions.
The chairman directed the planning wing to expedite surveys of all private housing societies. This effort will leverage modern tools such as Google and satellite imagery to monitor development activities and detect violations of approved layout plans. Notices have already been issued to violators, signaling CDA’s determination to enforce compliance.
Efforts to Recover Dues and Enforce Regulations
In addition to addressing the misuse of amenity plots, the CDA is taking steps to recover outstanding dues from various housing societies. These dues include fees and payments that societies are obligated to make as part of their operational agreements with the authority.
The planning wing has also been tasked with ensuring that the transfer of plots from private housing schemes to the CDA is properly vetted and completed in accordance with established regulations.
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Historical Context and Senate Recommendations
The misuse of amenity plots is not a new issue in Islamabad. A 2016 report by the Senate Standing Committee on Law and Justice highlighted the role of the CDA and local administration in enabling the mushroom growth of illegal housing schemes and violations of layout plans by cooperative housing societies.
The Senate had recommended that violations of layout plans be addressed by amending relevant regulations, with a strong emphasis on preserving public parks and green spaces. The report also urged the acquisition of additional land adjacent to housing schemes to compensate for lost public spaces and graveyards.
Federal Government’s Role in Regularization
Following a federal cabinet decision in August 2021, a committee was formed to develop policies for the regularization of irregular housing schemes in Islamabad. However, progress has been slow, and many recommendations from the Senate’s reports have yet to be fully implemented.
The CDA’s latest initiative to reclaim amenity plots aligns with the broader goal of addressing the challenges posed by unauthorized and non-compliant housing societies.
Enhanced Urban Monitoring and Compliance
CDA’s planning wing has started issuing notices to housing societies found in violation of layout plans and other regulations. Development activities in these societies are now being closely monitored, and any deviations from approved plans will result in immediate action.
Chairman Randhawa emphasized that the CDA’s enforcement actions will be impartial and robust, ensuring that no housing society can exploit public lands without consequences. This approach is part of a larger effort to enhance urban planning and protect the rights of Islamabad’s residents.
The Road Ahead
By taking control of amenity plots and enforcing strict regulations, the CDA is setting a precedent for improved governance and accountability in Islamabad’s housing sector. This initiative is expected to bring long-term benefits, including better access to public facilities, enhanced urban order, and a more sustainable approach to city development.
The CDA’s resolve to tackle unauthorized activities and misuse of public lands is a step forward in restoring trust and ensuring that Islamabad’s residents can enjoy the amenities they deserve. Through vigilant monitoring, efficient enforcement, and strategic planning, the CDA aims to create a city that reflects its true potential as a modern and well-regulated capital.
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