The Punjab government has intensified its action against illegal housing societies following the recent devastating floods in the province. Authorities are targeting unregistered and fraudulent societies to protect residents and recover misappropriated funds.
According to the Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE), the operation has gained momentum after flood damages exposed vulnerabilities in many unplanned housing areas. DG ACE Sohail Zafar Chattha stated that notices have been issued to the Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA) and the Lahore Development Authority (LDA). These agencies are directed to submit complete records of all housing societies, particularly those along the River Ravi.
In a recent development, the owner of a private housing society in Lahore was arrested. Investigations revealed that the developer had illegally acquired 11,000 kanals of land near Thokar and allegedly transferred nearly Rs 8 billion abroad. ACE officials added that some LDA employees may have supported these irregularities, and further inquiries are ongoing.
The Punjab govt aims to ensure accountability and prevent citizens from falling victim to fraudulent housing schemes. Officials are working on mechanisms to recover embezzled funds and compensate affected residents. Authorities emphasized that compliance with regulations and proper registration is mandatory for all housing societies.
Housing societies across Punjab have faced increased scrutiny due to the impact of floods, which highlighted poor planning and illegal constructions. Many unregistered societies lack proper flood management, leaving residents at risk during natural disasters. The Punjab govt is committed to enforcing strict measures to protect citizens and maintain urban development standards.
The crackdown also serves as a warning to other developers operating illegally. Punjab govt officials stressed that anyone running housing societies without proper authorization will face legal consequences. Authorities continue to coordinate with RUDA and LDA to monitor ongoing and upcoming projects.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy by the Punjab govt to strengthen governance and ensure safe, sustainable housing for the province’s residents.
In other related news also read Charges Filed On Rawalpindi Illegal Housing Scheme Owners
