Housing policy

Pakistan has a growing population and a shortage of houses. The government does not have the funds or capacity to build so many houses, while the private sector has not been able to build quickly or reduce the cost of housing over the past many years. During World War II, the US also faced a shortage of homes. Their government addressed the problem in a low-cost way that got them great results. Pakistan can copy their actions to help increase housing in our country as well. The US government passed laws limiting rent and home prices.

Because it became a crime to buy or rent homes at higher prices than set by the government, the private sector could not sell expensive houses and had to rely on selling a higher number of houses to make a profit. People started constructing cheap, affordable and similar houses, helping reduce construction cost. While people and companies also stopped investing in properties and instead invested in businesses, helping create many jobs and economic activities for the country.

Engr Shahryar Khan Baseer

Islamabad