The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has lifted the ban on the purchase, sale, registration, and transfer of properties in several areas near the Margalla Hills. The decision allows lawful property transactions to resume while keeping existing legal safeguards in place.
The ruling applies to localities including Shah Allah Ditta, Sangjani, Sarai Kharbooza, and other designated areas situated around the Margalla Hills region. These areas had been subject to restrictions on property dealings since late 2023.
The judgment was issued by Justice Muhammad Asif while hearing a petition filed by citizen Fazal Abbas. The petitioner challenged the legality of the restrictions imposed on property transactions.
According to the court, the ban introduced on December 1, 2023, was enforced without approval from the competent authority. The court ruled that the restriction did not have legal backing and was therefore invalid.
As a result, property owners and buyers in the affected Margalla Hills localities can now complete transactions in accordance with the law.
Property Deals Must Follow Existing Regulations
Although the restriction has been removed, the court made it clear that all property transactions must continue under the existing legal framework.
The Islamabad High Court directed the relevant authorities to regulate property matters under the Capital Development Authority (CDA) Ordinance, Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) regulations, and other applicable laws.
Officials responsible for registrations and transfers have been instructed to process cases according to the legal procedures already in place.
The court emphasized that lifting the ban does not remove government oversight of property transactions.
Illegal Housing Schemes Still Face Action
The judgment also clarified that authorities remain fully empowered to act against illegal housing societies and unauthorized construction.
Government agencies can continue taking action against unlawful developments, illegal changes in land use, and projects that violate planning regulations.
The court stressed that the latest ruling only restores lawful property transactions. It does not provide protection to illegal housing schemes operating near the Margalla Hills or elsewhere.
Enforcement agencies have been directed to continue monitoring unauthorized developments and take legal action whenever necessary.
Relief for Property Owners
The decision is expected to provide relief to genuine property owners whose transactions had remained suspended because of the restrictions.
Buyers and sellers can now proceed with property registrations and transfers, provided all legal requirements are fulfilled.
The judgment seeks to balance the rights of property owners with the government’s responsibility to regulate land use and urban development.
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By lifting the restriction while maintaining strict enforcement against illegal projects, the Islamabad High Court has ensured that lawful property activity can resume without weakening regulatory oversight in areas surrounding the Margalla Hills.
