600 Illegal Housing Societies Revealed in Twin Cities

Islamabad: According to Noor-ul-Amin Mengal, Chairman of the Capital Development Authority (CDA), approximately 600 illegal housing schemes are in operation in Islamabad and Rawalpindi without official/proper sanction from the relevant authorities. During the meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, this information was conveyed.

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The objective of the 35th meeting of the committee, convened at the CDA Secretariat, was to receive a comprehensive report on the development of earlier suggestions. In addition, the discussion included information on restaurants in the Margalla Hills that affect sewage systems and the environment, as well as a case study of Monal Restaurant. These illegal and legal housing societies are accountable for environmental damage in Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT).

Mr. MNA Nuzhat Pathan, the committee’s chairman, was dissatisfied with the late arrival of the Chairman CDA. Furthermore, CDA representatives explained that Mr. Noor was attending a personal court hearing. The committee was informed that there are approximately 150 illegal housing societies in Islamabad and 318 in Rawalpindi, with a significant number located in Fateh Jang and Rawalpindi Tehsil.

In addition, Miss MNA Romina Khurshid Alam voiced her concerns regarding the response provided by the CDA and IWMB regarding the installation of streetlights within the National Park. She emphasised the need to prioritise environmental issues and suggested installing sensor-based lighting on sideways hiking paths. To protect wildlife, it was also proposed to implement a timing system that would illuminate the national park until 9 or 10 p.m.