*CDA Continues Operation Against Encroachments and Illegal Constructions Around Islamabad Expressway Service Road East*

Islamabad (Staff Reporter) The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has launched a vigorous operation to eliminate encroachments, illegal and unauthorized constructions on both sides of the Islamabad Expressway, enforce building bylaws, collect government dues, and ensure the safety of citizens’ lives and property. In this regard, the Building Control Section (BCS) and the Enforcement Directorate of CDA, in collaboration with the district administration and Islamabad police, have formally commenced a sealing and regularization campaign against construction units around the Islamabad Expressway Service Road East.

The objective of this special campaign is to bring illegal, unauthorized, and non-conforming constructions around the Islamabad Expressway Service Road East within the legal framework, ensure uniform enforcement of building bylaws, protect government revenue, and provide citizens with safe, organized, and quality urban facilities. This action is a crucial part of CDA’s policy to maintain planning, construction discipline, and a safe urban environment in Islamabad.

According to details, during the campaign, action has been taken against over 50 violating construction units under the applicable building control regulations. This includes 34 construction units from Sohaan to Iqbal Town and 24 construction units from Korang Bridge to Korang Police Station and Gulberg Greens. Furthermore, construction units have been marked for legal action, while the survey of the remaining area and the identification of violations are still ongoing.

CDA officials reported that violations of building bylaws, non-conforming use, and the absence of required fire safety arrangements were observed in the sealed commercial buildings. Prior to the action, relevant owners and individuals were issued notices in accordance with the law and were given a reasonable time to comply with building bylaws, rectify unauthorized use, complete fire safety arrangements, and regularize their constructions. They were also repeatedly informed about the payment of dues and obtaining necessary approvals under applicable laws.

Despite the expiration of the grace period provided in the notices issued by CDA, several owners and relevant individuals have not fulfilled legal requirements, paid the necessary dues, or rectified the violations. Consequently, indiscriminate action is being taken against them in accordance with the prescribed legal procedures. CDA administration has clarified that action against any construction unit will be based on law, available records, and relevant building control regulations.

CDA stated that illegal and non-conforming commercial constructions around the Islamabad Expressway Service Road East are causing significant issues regarding the protection of government revenue, construction discipline, and the safety of citizens. Issues have also arisen regarding the approval of building plans, payment of regularization fees, and other applicable government dues in several units. Additionally, the lack of required fire safety arrangements in commercial buildings poses risks to the lives and property of citizens, business owners, and individuals within the buildings.

CDA emphasized that fire safety is not just a legal requirement but a fundamental responsibility for the protection of citizens’ lives. Therefore, ensuring approved building plans, safe usage, emergency exits, fire safety equipment, and other necessary safety arrangements in commercial buildings is imperative. Relevant departments are also providing guidance in accordance with the prescribed procedures for fulfilling these requirements and obtaining legal approvals.

CDA has appealed to citizens, business owners, and construction unit owners to immediately review the building plans, usage, construction permits, and fire safety arrangements of their buildings and commercial units. Where necessary, obtain legal approvals, regularization, and other required permits from the relevant CDA departments and ensure timely payment of government dues.

*CDA has made it clear that enforcing the law, protecting government revenue, safeguarding citizens’ lives and property, and maintaining Islamabad as an organized, safe, and beautiful federal capital are among the agency’s top priorities. To this end, actions against illegal constructions and violations of building bylaws will continue indiscriminately under the relevant laws.*