CDA Takes Action Against Housing Scheme for Not Transferring 31 Kanals Land
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has initiated strict enforcement action against a private housing scheme for failing to transfer 31 kanals of land reserved for public use, intensifying its crackdown on violations of planning laws in Islamabad.
According to official sources, the land was clearly earmarked for public buildings and civic amenities, but the housing scheme did not fulfill its legal obligation despite repeated warnings. CDA officials say the action is being taken to protect public interest and ensure that Islamabad’s planned development standards are not compromised.
The development signals a tougher stance by the Authority as courts continue to direct regulators to act firmly against housing schemes that misuse or withhold land meant for public facilities.
Public Amenity Land a Legal Requirement
CDA officials clarified that under the ICT Zoning Regulations 1992 and the Regulations for Planning and Development of Private Housing Schemes 2023, every private housing scheme is legally bound to allocate and transfer land reserved for public amenities to CDA free of cost.
This land is essential for the provision of basic civic facilities, including:
- Hospitals and healthcare units
- Schools and educational institutions
- Parks and playgrounds
- Community centers
- Post offices and graveyards
The Authority emphasized that these requirements are fundamental to Islamabad’s master planning framework and cannot be ignored for commercial benefit.
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Failure to Comply Despite Repeated Notices
According to CDA officials, the housing scheme was issued multiple reminders and notices earlier this year, clearly directing it to complete the transfer of 31 kanals of public amenity land.
Despite these warnings, the scheme failed to take corrective action or provide satisfactory justification. This persistent non-compliance prompted CDA to move beyond warnings and initiate formal enforcement proceedings.
An official involved in the case said that leniency in such matters encourages further violations, which is why the Authority decided to act decisively.
Revised Layout Plan Did Not Resolve Violations
The issue also came under scrutiny when the housing scheme submitted a Revised Layout Plan (RLP), approved in March 2023. While the revised plan expanded the overall area of the scheme, it still did not ensure proper transfer of land reserved for public buildings.
Officials noted that approval of a revised plan does not waive statutory obligations. Even after expansion, the scheme was required to comply fully with planning laws, which it failed to do.
CDA maintained that ongoing litigation related to the layout plan does not justify withholding public amenity land.
Strong Backing From Islamabad High Court
CDA’s action is backed by multiple Islamabad High Court (IHC) judgments, which clearly state that public amenity plots cannot be altered, converted, or withheld by private developers.
According to officials, the IHC has repeatedly directed CDA to:
- Restore amenity plots where changes were made
- Act against housing schemes converting public land into commercial or residential plots
- Enforce approved layout plans strictly
These judgments leave no discretionary space for regulators and require strict implementation of planning laws.
Directions Issued to the Housing Scheme
As part of the enforcement action, CDA has issued clear directions to the housing scheme, ordering it to:
- Transfer 31.05 kanals of public amenity land to CDA within ten days
- Fence and secure all public facility plots
- Clearly mark the plots with visible display boards
- Submit updated satellite images and drone footage showing the current status of all reserved sites
Officials said these measures are meant to ensure transparency and prevent future encroachments.
All Development Approvals Suspended
CDA has also suspended all development-related approvals for the housing scheme until full compliance is achieved.
This includes:
- No Objection Certificates (NOCs)
- Transfer permissions
- Building plan approvals
- Any further expansion or development clearances
Officials warned that the suspension will remain in place until the Authority is satisfied that all legal requirements have been fulfilled.
Warning of Serious Legal Consequences
The Authority has issued a strong warning that failure to comply may lead to severe administrative and legal action, including:
- Cancellation of the approved layout plan
- Referral of the case to NAB or FIA for investigation
- Sealing of the housing scheme’s offices
- Sale of mortgaged plots held by CDA
- Demolition of illegal structures built on public land
CDA also warned that demolitions, if carried out, will be done with police assistance, and all costs will be recovered from responsible individuals.
Final Chance for Personal Hearing
Despite the strict measures, CDA has provided the housing scheme with a final opportunity for a personal hearing within ten days.
Officials said that if the scheme fails to respond or appear, the Authority will proceed with ex-parte action, meaning decisions will be taken without further consultation.
This step, according to CDA, aligns with principles of natural justice while ensuring timely enforcement.
Broader Crackdown on Housing Schemes
The action is part of a broader enforcement drive against housing schemes across Islamabad that violate planning and zoning regulations.
In recent months, CDA has taken similar actions against several major developers for failing to transfer public amenity land or altering approved layout plans.
Authorities say this crackdown is necessary to prevent unchecked commercialization and protect the city’s planned character.
Impact on Residents and Property Market
Urban planners believe that strict enforcement will ultimately benefit residents by ensuring access to essential facilities such as parks, schools, and healthcare centers.
Experts say that housing schemes lacking public amenities not only reduce quality of life but also negatively affect long-term property value and urban sustainability.
Buyers are increasingly advised to verify whether housing schemes have complied with CDA regulations before making investments.
Conclusion – CDA Takes Action Housing Scheme 31 Kanals Land
CDA’s action against the housing scheme over 31 kanals of public land highlights the Authority’s renewed commitment to enforcing planning laws in Islamabad.
With clear backing from the Islamabad High Court, CDA appears determined to reclaim public amenity land and hold developers accountable.
The case serves as a strong warning to all housing schemes that non-compliance will no longer be tolerated, and that public interest will take precedence over commercial considerations in the federal capital.
