CDA Steps Up to Protect Islamabad’s Amenity Plots from Illegal Use

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has decided to take possession of amenity plots from private housing societies to prevent their misuse. This decision was made during a meeting chaired by CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa on Wednesday. The CDA plans to address the issue of land, such as parks and schools, that was reserved for amenities but has been reportedly sold by housing societies.

Taking Control of Amenity Plots

The CDA will take control of the plots transferred to its name and assign them to its newly formed Directorate of Estate Management III. The aim is to ensure that these amenity lands are used appropriately.

Addressing Unauthorized Housing Schemes

There are 65 approved housing schemes in Islamabad, but several have yet to transfer amenity plots to the CDA. In addition, over 100 unauthorized housing schemes are operating without approval. The CDA has decided to take steps to recover dues from housing societies and ensure that land transfers are vetted by the CDA as per regulations.

Mapping and Legal Action

A mapping exercise will be conducted to assess unauthorized societies and determine if they can be regularized. If not, legal action will be taken. The CDA's actions follow the federal cabinet's decision in August 2021 to create a committee for regularizing irregular housing schemes in Islamabad.

Ensuring Compliance and Monitoring

Reports from 2016 had blamed the CDA and local administration for the growth of illegal housing schemes and violations of layout plans. The Senate recommended that no compromise should be made regarding public parks and that any land adjacent to housing schemes be acquired for public use. The CDA's planning wing has started issuing notices to private housing societies for violations, and a survey process will be expedited to monitor development activities using satellite imagery.

Key Highlights

• Taking Possession: CDA to take control of amenity plots from private housing societies.

• Preventing Misuse: Ensuring lands reserved for amenities are used appropriately.

• Unauthorized Schemes: Addressing the issue of unauthorized housing schemes operating without approval.

• Legal Action: Mapping exercise and potential legal action for non-compliance.

• Monitoring Compliance: Issuing notices and using satellite imagery to monitor development activities.