PHC petitioned against bid to launch new phases in Hayatabad

PESHAWAR: The Peshawar High Court (PHC) was moved on Friday against the provincial government’s decision to launch two new phases, Phase 8 and Phase 9, in Hayatabad. The petition, filed by Advocate Huma Khan under public interest litigation, sought to nullify the government’s notification dated December 3, 2024.

The provincial government, Local Government Department, and Peshawar Development Authority (PDA), along with other relevant officials, were made respondents in the case. In her petition, Huma Khan, a resident of Hayatabad, argued that Hayatabad was already an established residential locality known for its unique design, modern amenities, and enhanced security.

She contended that the approval of additional phases was unnecessary and posed challenges to the existing infrastructure and facilities. According to the petition, Hayatabad currently consists of seven phases and introducing two new phases would strain its resources, including water, gas, and electricity, which have already been subject to shortages and rising costs in recent years.

The petitioner said that the residents were already burdened by the increasing cost of utilities and the proposed expansion would only exacerbate their difficulties. The petition further suggested that if the provincial government aimed to address housing issues, priority should be given to the completion of other housing schemes, such as Peshawar Valley, Regi Model Town, and similar projects.