ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on Housing and Works, headed by Senator Nasir Mehmood, met to review various issues, including land encroachments, stalled development schemes, and delays in the Islamabad Central Jail project.
The committee showed serious concern over illegal occupation of land, especially in Murree. “Land grabbing in Murree has been going on for 40 years,” said Senator Mehmood.
Members stressed that land encroachment continues to be a major problem. One member said, “If the illegal occupiers are still alive, immediate action must be taken.”
A key dispute discussed was about the Constantia Lodge and nearby land (Khasra Nos. 43 and 44), covering 4.6 acres at Kashmir Point in Murree. This is an old property from before Partition, which was later managed by the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB). The Foreign Office had once used it to house foreign guests and even leased it to the Brazilian embassy.
Later, the property was handed over to the Public Works Department (PWD) in 1999, which is now part of the Ministry of Housing and Works. However, due to disputes with locals and alleged encroachment, the ministry has still not taken control of the land.
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Senator Mehmood also questioned why the Rawalpindi chief commissioner, who was expected to brief the committee about the issue, was absent. The additional chief commissioner explained that the official could not attend due to security duties for Muharramul Haram.
When the Islamabad Central Jail project was discussed, Capital Development Authority (CDA) officials told the committee that the project, started in 2013 and handed over to CDA in 2024, is short of funds. Although Rs1 billion has been approved for this year, an additional Rs2.5 billion is still needed.
CDA warned that without more funding, the project will be delayed and costs will go up. The chairman asked how much time is needed if the required funds are provided. CDA replied that 49% of the work is still pending and can be completed in four months if money is made available.
The jail is currently 51% complete and is one of 15 active projects being handled by the Ministry of Interior.
Senator Mehmood said the matter is urgent and warned that further delay would increase the cost. “Projects that should take three years are dragging on for 14 years. If they are not completed on time, the Finance Division is responsible,” he added.
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Officials said Rs1.32 billion has been released for 2024–25, but the extra Rs2.5 billion is still required. The chairman urged the Interior Ministry and Planning Division to work together to make sure the project is completed on time. “Without additional funds, this jail project cannot move forward,” he warned.
The committee also discussed hiring staff for the jail once it is completed. Members stressed that the hiring process must match the operational needs of the prison.
Other issues raised included delayed maintenance work at the Shaheed-e-Millat Secretariat on Jinnah Avenue, where five lifts need replacement and other urgent repairs are pending.
Regarding housing, the committee was informed that a mobile app is being developed to manage the general waiting list for residential allotments. Although the list is available online, Senator Mehmood said there must be a better and easier system for applicants.
