CDA seals illegal commercial buildings along Islamabad Expressway

Sources familiar with the operation told Minute Mirror that the action was conducted by the CDA’s Building Control and Housing Wing after

ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has launched a crackdown on illegal commercial structures along the Islamabad Expressway Service Road East, sealing several plazas and commercial units for alleged violations of building regulations, unauthorised land use and inadequate fire-safety arrangements.

Sources familiar with the operation told Minute Mirror that the action was conducted by the CDA’s Building Control and Housing Wing after the completion of the required legal process.

According to officials, property owners had been served notices before the operation and were directed to present approved building plans, relevant no-objection certificates, fire-safety documentation and other required registration or regularisation documents. The sealing action was initiated after the stipulated deadline expired without satisfactory compliance.

Sources said several properties were found to have either been constructed without approved building plans or were being used for commercial activities that did not conform to their approved land-use status, allegedly violating applicable zoning and building regulations.

Serious fire-safety concerns were also identified at some of the premises, including the absence of required fire-safety certification, emergency exits and firefighting equipment. Officials warned that such deficiencies could pose significant risks to the lives and property of occupants and visitors.

The operation is being carried out along the corridor associated with the Islamabad Expressway Service Road East project, which comprises a 9.3-kilometre dual three-lane carriageway extending from Faizabad to Korang. The project is intended to improve traffic movement and provide safer transportation facilities in the capital.

CDA officials said the action forms part of a broader citywide enforcement drive against unauthorised and non-conforming structures. They maintained that buildings operating in violation of approved regulations can also result in financial losses to the public exchequer through unpaid approval, regularisation, commercialisation and other applicable government charges.

Sources further disclosed that additional buildings along the same corridor have been identified for possible enforcement action. More properties could be sealed if their owners fail to meet the applicable building-control and land-use requirements.

The CDA has reiterated that enforcement measures are aimed at protecting citizens, ensuring compliance with building regulations and maintaining a safe and properly planned urban environment in Islamabad. Officials said action would continue against violations irrespective of the status or influence of the property owners.