Globiscope
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has issued a show cause notice to Bahria Town (Pvt.) Ltd. The developer failed to transfer public land, including building sites, parks, graveyards, and roads in Phase-VII, Zone-5, Islamabad. This transfer is mandatory under CDA Ordinance 1960, ICT Zoning Regulations 1992, and Private Housing Regulations 2023.
Mandatory Public Land Transfer
The Directorate of Housing Societies confirmed that transferring land reserved for public use is legally required. Despite repeated reminders since 2013, Bahria Town has not handed over the land. CDA stated that this transfer must happen free of charge.
Layout Plans and Untransferred Land
The original layout plan of Bahria Town Phase-VII covered 761.20 kanals and was approved in September 2005. A revised plan of 879.53 kanals was approved in February 2020. Both plans required transfer of land for:
- Public buildings
- Parks and green spaces
- Graveyards
- Roads
CDA’s latest assessment shows that 41.72 kanals of land still remains untransferred. This violates the approved layout plan and regulatory obligations.
High Court Support for CDA
The Islamabad High Court has backed CDA’s authority. Court rulings emphasize:
- Restoration of public amenity plots
- Strict enforcement of penalties
- Cancellation of layout plans or NOCs for non-compliance
Deadlines and Actions Required
CDA directed Bahria Town to:
- Transfer the identified land within 10 days
- Submit compliance reports on fencing and marking public utility plots
- Install visible display boards
- Provide updated satellite and drone images of transferred areas
If the developer fails to comply, CDA may:
- Suspend or withdraw NOCs
- Seal offices
- Block access to the scheme
- Demolish illegal structures
- Refer the case to NAB and FIA
Potential Use of Force
CDA may start ex parte proceedings and use police support to remove illegal structures. All costs will be charged to Bahria Town. The developer can request a personal hearing within 10 days.
Conclusion
CDA’s action highlights the importance of regulatory compliance in private housing schemes. The authority aims to protect public welfare, maintain urban planning standards, and ensure fair land use. Citizens benefit when developers follow the law.
Images Suggested for Article:
- Drone footage of Bahria Town Phase-VII
- Public parks and roads inside the scheme
- CDA offices handling notices
- Maps highlighting untransferred plots
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