The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is in the final stages of preparing 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 meeting chaired by Parliamentary Minorities Caucus Convener Danish Kumar, the CDA chairman informed lawmakers that 10 informal settlements have been regularized, while around 26 others continue to operate without legal status.
He said several of the unauthorized settlements are located in prime residential areas of the federal capital and sought the caucus’ input on relocating residents where necessary. The chairman noted that any action involving these settlements must be handled carefully because it directly affects vulnerable communities.
The CDA also informed the caucus that some of the unauthorized settlements have expanded beyond residential use and are now being used for commercial and business activities, making enforcement and urban planning more complex.
During the meeting, Danish Kumar criticized the CDA for failing to provide briefing material in advance and said the authority had not given adequate importance to the Parliamentary Minorities Caucus. He stressed that timely access to information is essential for effective parliamentary oversight.
The caucus was told that the policy on informal settlements is nearing completion and will be formally presented for discussion at its next meeting.
