The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on Wednesday expressed serious concern over large-scale corruption and irregularities within the Capital Development Authority (CDA), following a review of audit reports and pending investigations handled by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).
The meeting, led by PAC Chairperson Shahida Akhtar Ali, scrutinized the CDA’s 2023-24 audit report, focusing on multiple cases that had been referred to the FIA for further action.
FIA Director General Usman Anwar briefed the committee on ongoing investigations, highlighting a suspicious allotment of 43 plots in Islamabad, which allegedly resulted in a loss of Rs1 billion to the national exchequer.
According to the DG FIA, FIRs have been filed against 57 individuals, including CDA officials, employees, and private parties. So far, 37 suspects have been taken into custody in connection with the cases.
Another case presented involved irregularities exceeding Rs850 million in land management payments. Investigations in this matter revealed embezzlement of Rs1.2 billion, and the bank accounts of those involved have been frozen or attached.
PAC members voiced deep concern over the scale of corruption. Shahida Akhtar Ali described the situation as “extremely alarming,” while committee member Nadeem Abbas said it exposed a near-total breakdown in CDA’s internal systems.
Shazia Marri highlighted the struggles faced by citizens affected by these irregularities, warning that the situation should not escalate to protests by those seeking justice. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry noted that the CDA is currently compensating affected individuals at Rs800,000 per kanal based on 2008 rates, whereas current land prices have surged drastically—making even Rs10 million per kanal insufficient for purchase today.
The DG FIA also pointed out that vulnerable groups, including orphans and persons with disabilities, were among those deceived, raising further concerns about the handling of compensation claims.
The CDA chairman assured the committee that genuine affectees would receive compensation once the FIA concludes its investigations. The PAC directed authorities to ensure full transparency and accountability in all land allotment and compensation processes.
