RDA bans housing projects to preserve land

RAWALPINDI:

The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) has imposed a ban on new private housing schemes in five tehsils—Rawalpindi, Gujarkhan, Taxila, Kallar Syedan, and Kahuta—to promote sustainable development and preserve agricultural lands.

The ban will remain in effect until the final approval of RDA's Pre-Urban Site Development Plan.

As part of its proactive efforts to promote environmentally responsible urban growth, the authority has instructed developers and investors to halt land purchases for new housing projects within these tehsils.

Additionally, developers have been barred from subdividing land for investor-driven housing schemes without obtaining prior approval.

According to RDA sources, the Pre-Urban Site Development Plan will delineate agricultural areas, residential zones, green zones, and sensitive environmental regions.

Strict enforcement measures will be taken against those who violate the ban, including the imposition of hefty fines, legal action, and the demolition of unauthorised structures.

The authority's goal is to maintain a balance between urban development, environmental conservation, and natural resource protection.

The authority has committed to promoting eco-friendly residential construction, with a strong emphasis on protecting fertile agricultural land and sensitive ecological zones.