APP
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has sealed 58 buildings along Islamabad Expressway for violations of building control regulations and land-use rules, recovering Rs250.59 million in charges during an ongoing enforcement operation.
The action was reviewed by CDA Chairman Sohail Ashraf during a visit to the Islamabad Expressway Service Road East project on Monday, where he directed officials to ensure timely completion of development work while maintaining construction standards. According to the CDA, 377 structures, including 281 commercial buildings, have been identified for enforcement action. Of the 58 buildings sealed so far, 34 are in Sohan Iqbal Town and 24 in the areas of Korang Bridge, Korang Police Station and Gulberg Greens.
Another 124 structures between Sohan and Khanna Pul have been identified for demolition, with work under way.
The violations include unauthorised construction, commercial activities in areas not designated for such use, construction without approval and failure to meet mandatory fire-safety requirements. The CDA said notices had been served on the owners and occupants concerned before action was taken against those who failed to rectify the violations within the prescribed period.
The authority recovered Rs250.59 million through land-use conversion charges, charges for construction without approval and de-sealing fees. The recoveries relate to various properties, including commercial buildings, plazas, hospitals and marriage halls. Around Rs3 billion remains recoverable in connection with land-use conversion, unauthorised construction and violations involving setbacks, floor area ratio and covered area, the CDA said.
During his visit to the service road project, Sohail Ashraf was briefed on the progress of construction and the next phase of work.
He directed the project team to follow approved designs and technical specifications and ensure regular monitoring, quality control and traffic management to minimise inconvenience to commuters. The CDA said the project was aimed at improving road connectivity, easing congestion and strengthening the capital’s road network.
The enforcement operation is being conducted by the CDA’s Building Control Section and Enforcement Directorate in coordination with the Islamabad district administration and police. The chairman directed officials to ensure uniform enforcement of building regulations, land-use rules and fire-safety requirements, saying illegal construction and activities in violation of approved land use would not be allowed to compromise public safety and planned development.