The federal government has ramped up its enforcement of urban planning laws in the capital city this week. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi informed the National Assembly yesterday that officials have identified 439 illegal buildings in Islamabad. These structures appeared across various sectors without any approved building plans or official permission from the state. According to a written reply submitted to the House, most of these unauthorized projects sit within Zone 1 and Zone 2. The Capital Development Authority (CDA) confirms that these sites do not meet the mandatory safety and zoning regulations required for urban development.
To address these violations, the CDA has already collected over 931 million rupees in fines from the owners of these properties. Minister Naqvi stated that the department has issued formal show-cause notices to every building on the list. So far, the enforcement teams have sealed 152 illegal buildings in Islamabad to prevent further construction or occupancy. This crackdown reflects a zero-tolerance policy toward developers who bypass the law. The government intends to protect the master plan of the city by ensuring all new projects undergo proper scrutiny and obtain the necessary No Objection Certificates (NOCs).
Interior Ministry acts against illegal buildings in Islamabad
Beyond housing violations, the minister also highlighted a major public health concern regarding the city’s meat supply. He admitted to the House that the current slaughterhouse in Sihala is outdated and fails to meet modern hygiene standards. The facility, which has been in use since 1960, is now considered environmentally hazardous. On the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the CDA has launched a project to build a new, international-standard slaughterhouse. This modern facility will include advanced waste management and chilling rooms to ensure that citizens receive safe and healthy food products.
The ministry’s latest report signals a broader effort to modernize Islamabad’s infrastructure while strictly enforcing land-use rules. Officials warned that they are using satellite mapping to track any new unauthorized encroachments in real-time. This technology helps the CDA identify violations before they become large-scale projects. The government encourages the public to verify the legal status of any building or housing society before making a financial investment. By maintaining strict oversight, the administration aims to curb the growth of unregulated settlements and improve the overall quality of life for the residents of the capital.
