CDA identifies 96 private housing schemes without NOC in capital

2026-02-02 - 22:56

Public cautioned against risking lifetime savings in unapproved projects Amid heightened public debate over environmental degradation, tree cutting, and concerns about safety standards in the federal capital, a number of housing societies claiming fast development work are seen behind this systematic degradation of environment, destroying greenbelts. The crucial question that has come to the forefront is which housing societies in Islamabad are legal, and which are not. According to the official data placed online by the CDA, a total of 69 housing schemes—including government-related, cooperative, and private sector projects—have been listed with varying approval statuses such as approved Layout Plans (LOPs), issued or cancelled No Objection Certificates (NOCs), and provisional permissions. At the same time, the authority has identified 96 private housing schemes that have not been approved and are therefore illegal. A senior CDA official said the authority has uploaded comprehensive details to enable citizens, investors, and other stakeholders to verify the legal status of housing projects before making any financial commitments. The CDA website explains that under the ICT (Zoning) Regulations, 1992—amended from time to time—the Islamabad Capital Territory has been divided into five zones. Of these, Zone-2 and Zone-5 were earmarked in 1992 for the planning and development of private housing schemes by cooperative housing societies and private limited companies. In addition, private schemes were permitted in Sector E-11. Later, in 2010, the federal government extended this permission to Zone-4, allowing private housing and farm housing schemes under regulated conditions. Till June 2023, the CDA remained responsible for regulating the planning and development of private housing schemes in these designated zones in accordance with zoning regulations and approved procedures. In compliance with orders of the Islamabad High Court, the CDA has also started exercising building control in private housing schemes to ensure adherence to safety, planning, and construction standards. The website further clarifies that the Deputy Commissioner/Registrar, Cooperative Societies, ICT Administration is responsible for registration and administrative oversight of cooperative housing societies.