Islamabad:Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has ordered an immediate and sweeping operation against illegal constructions and unauthorized housing societies across the Federal Capital, Islamabad, signalling a firm stance against unchecked urban expansion.
The directive was issued during a high-level meeting, attended by key administrative and police officials, including the Chief Commissioner, IGP Islamabad Police, Deputy Commissioner, DIGs, SSPs, SPs, and Assistant Commissioners. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry and the Federal Secretary of Interior also participated.
The meeting underscored the government’s resolve to tackle the persistent issue of unauthorized development that has plagued the federal capital. Minister Naqvi emphasized a “zero-tolerance policy” in this regard, instructing field officers to ensure its strict implementation. “Immediate operation against illegal constructions in Islamabad decided,” Naqvi stated, issuing clear instructions for action against unauthorized houses and unapproved housing societies.
The decision comes amidst a noticeable surge in illegal construction activities in and around Islamabad, a phenomenon attributed to several interconnected factors. The meeting was told that Islamabad’s continuous growth and influx of population have created immense pressure for housing, leading some developers and individuals to bypass legal procedures and construct without proper approvals.
Historically, inconsistent enforcement of building codes and zoning regulations, coupled with potential administrative loopholes, has allowed illegal structures to proliferate. This has often been exploited by land mafias and unscrupulous developers. Until recently, a robust, centralized system for monitoring and identifying new illegal constructions was lacking, enabling unauthorized developments to go unnoticed for extended periods.
The booming real estate market has incentivised rapid, often unregulated, development, with little regard for environmental impact or urban planning.To combat trend of expanding illegal housing societies, Minister Naqvi directed the use of advanced technology. “All kinds of illegal constructions should be prevented through satellite mapping using the Land Information and Management System (LIMS),” he instructed, aiming for a more proactive and efficient identification of violations.
Beyond the crackdown, the interior minister also stressed the importance of improving public services and fostering trust between citizens and the administration. “Providing world-class services to the citizens of Islamabad should be your top priority,” Naqvi asserted, adding, “No effort should be spared in ensuring the safety of citizens’ lives and property.”
SPs and ACs were specifically urged to perform their duties actively to enhance the image of the police and administration. “The image of the police and administration in the federal capital needs to be improved, and this can only happen when citizens themselves express trust in you,” Naqvi remarked.
He encouraged officers to introduce new initiatives for citizen convenience, assuring them of full cooperation for their implementation urging them to “advance this process with full determination and national spirit to achieve the desired results.”
In addition to the core agenda, Minister Naqvi also directed officials to ensure effective control over the prices of essential items in Islamabad and to give special attention to city cleanliness during the upcoming Eidul Azha celebrations.
This comprehensive directive signals a significant push from the Interior Ministry to restore urban planning integrity, enhance public safety, and improve governance in Islamabad. The effectiveness of these measures will hinge on rigorous follow-through and sustained vigilance by the appointed authorities. Ends