CDA conducts operation against illegal constructions in housing societies

Islamabad:The Capital Development Authority (CDA), with the support of the Islamabad administration and Islamabad Police, conducted a massive operation against illegal constructions and buildings in housing societies within the limits of Islamabad. About 30 units and shops were sealed during the first phase of the sealing operation in Pak PWD Employees Cooperative Housing Society, Lohi Bher Zone-V, Islamabad.

The operation is considered just the tip of the iceberg, as the housing society had encroached upon playgrounds and parks over the last two decades, converting them into commercial areas with multi-storey shopping plazas in glaring violation of the layout plan.

Following the directions of the Minister of Interior, Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi, and the Chairman CDA and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, the CDA has launched a strict campaign against illegal and unauthorized societies and buildings within the limits of the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT), according to a CDA spokesman.

During the operation, various sites in Pak PWD Employees Cooperative Housing Society, Lohi Bher Zone-V, Islamabad, were targeted. The first phase of the operation was conducted in accordance with the provisions of the CDA Ordinance, 1960, and the Building Control Regulations, 2020 (as amended in 2023).

The sealed buildings were found to be in violation due to non-approval of building plans, unauthorized commercial use, and illegal occupancy without completion certificates, as well as non-payment of applicable penalties and fees. The joint enforcement operation aimed to ensure regulatory compliance and uphold the sanctity of Islamabad's building regulations.

All units sealed were found non-compliant despite prior notices. Further legal action will be initiated against repeated violators, as per CDA bylaws. All stakeholders are advised to obtain proper approvals and certificates from the concerned wing of the CDA before initiating any illegal construction or occupancy within the limits of the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT).