The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is preparing a comprehensive policy to address informal settlements across Islamabad, with a proposed framework expected to be presented to the Parliamentary Minorities Caucus during its upcoming meeting. The initiative is aimed at creating a structured approach to managing unauthorized settlements while balancing legal, social, and humanitarian considerations.

The policy comes as the CDA continues its efforts to regulate urban development in the federal capital and address the growing number of informal settlements established over the years.

During a meeting of the Parliamentary Minorities Caucus, chaired by Convener Danish Kumar, the CDA chairman briefed lawmakers on the current status of informal settlements in Islamabad. He informed the committee that 10 settlements have already been regularized and granted legal recognition, while approximately 26 settlements remain unauthorized.

According to the CDA, many of the unauthorized settlements are situated in some of Islamabad’s prime residential and high-value areas. These locations have become a key concern for urban planners, who are seeking solutions that support planned development while considering the needs of residents living in these communities.

The CDA chairman acknowledged that dealing with unauthorized settlements is a highly sensitive issue because it directly impacts vulnerable populations. He emphasized that any future action should be carried out responsibly, with appropriate consideration for the welfare of affected families.

As part of the policy discussions, the authority sought recommendations from the Parliamentary Minorities Caucus regarding possible relocation strategies for residents where relocation becomes necessary. Officials stressed that any resettlement process should prioritize fairness, transparency, and the protection of citizens’ rights.

Informal settlements, commonly known as katchi abadis, have remained a long-standing urban planning challenge in Islamabad. Rapid population growth, migration, and housing shortages have contributed to the expansion of these communities, creating complex legal and social issues for city administrators.

Urban development experts note that addressing informal settlements requires a balanced approach that combines infrastructure planning, affordable housing initiatives, and social welfare measures. Regularization may be appropriate for some communities, while relocation may be considered for settlements located in environmentally sensitive zones, public spaces, or areas designated for critical infrastructure projects.

The CDA’s proposed policy is expected to establish clearer guidelines for identifying which settlements qualify for regularization and which may require relocation under existing urban planning regulations. Officials hope the framework will improve transparency and provide a more consistent approach to future decision-making.

The authority also aims to strengthen Islamabad’s long-term urban planning by ensuring that land use aligns with the city’s master plan while addressing the housing needs of low-income residents. Any policy adopted is expected to involve consultations with relevant government bodies and stakeholders before implementation.

The upcoming presentation to the Parliamentary Minorities Caucus will play an important role in shaping the final policy. Feedback from lawmakers is expected to help ensure that future actions balance development objectives with humanitarian concerns and legal protections for affected communities.

As Islamabad continues to expand, the CDA’s proposed framework represents an important step toward resolving one of the capital’s most persistent urban challenges while promoting sustainable and inclusive city planning.