The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is finalizing a comprehensive policy on informal settlements in Islamabad, with the proposed framework set to be presented to the Parliamentary Minorities Caucus at its next meeting.
During a caucus meeting chaired by Convener Danish Kumar, the CDA chairman briefed lawmakers on the status of informal settlements in the federal capital. He said 10 settlements have been regularized and granted legal status, while around 26 others remain unauthorized.
The CDA chairman informed the caucus that many of the unauthorized settlements are located in some of Islamabad’s most valuable residential areas. He sought lawmakers’ guidance on relocating residents where necessary, noting that any action involving informal settlements is highly sensitive because it directly affects vulnerable communities.
He added that some of the unauthorized settlements are also being used for commercial and business activities, creating additional challenges for the authority as it works to balance social concerns with urban planning requirements.
During the meeting, Convener Danish Kumar criticized the CDA for failing to provide briefing documents to the caucus in a timely manner. He also expressed dissatisfaction over what he described as the authority’s lack of engagement with the Parliamentary Minorities Caucus, stressing that timely access to information is essential for effective parliamentary oversight.
Officials informed the meeting that the CDA’s policy on informal settlements is in its final stages and will be formally presented for discussion and review during the caucus’ next session.
