RAWALPINDI IMTISAL BUKHARI
On the directive of Director General Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA), Kanza Murtaza, the Enforcement Squad of RDA conducted action against the illegal housing scheme Capital Smart City Phase-3 and a UBL ATM building located on its premises. However, instead of taking firm legal action against the developers of the illegal housing project, the RDA team limited the operation to sealing the marketing office and the United Bank Limited (UBL) ATM structure — and then submitted a report to the DG stating that the task had been accomplished.
The crackdown was led by Assistant Director Planning, Ali Raza, with support from Scheme Inspectors Muhammad Tariq, Imran Hussain, and other staff members. Police support was also provided by the Choontara Police Station during the operation.
In a statement, DG RDA Kanza Murtaza reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to enforcing city planning regulations and acting indiscriminately against unauthorized constructions and unapproved housing schemes. She stated that violations of development laws will not be tolerated under any circumstances. She further urged the public to verify the legal status of any housing scheme with RDA before making any investment to avoid fraud or financial loss.
She emphasized that the cooperation of citizens is crucial to eliminating encroachments and ensuring that Rawalpindi’s urban growth is planned, legal, and secure. Citizens are encouraged to visit the RDA office or website to obtain up-to-date information regarding approved and illegal housing schemes.
Meanwhile, an RDA spokesperson explained that the sponsors of Capital Smart City Phase-3 were actively involved in illegal plot bookings, marketing, and construction activities without obtaining necessary approvals or a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from RDA. These actions are clear violations of the Punjab Development of Cities Act 1976 and the Punjab Private Housing Schemes and Land Sub-Division Rules 2021. Despite prior notices, no compliance was observed, which led to the recent enforcement action.
