RDA blocks bid to 'usurp' prime land

The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) claimed to have thwarted an attempt by a businessman to commercialise high-value government-owned land in the Civil Lines area.

The case involves an 18-marla plot owned by RDA, which was allegedly merged into a private residential plot to facilitate the construction of a commercial arcade.

The businessman had earlier obtained provisional commercialisation approval, which was later revoked after an inquiry found it violated legal requirements.

In July 2024, the RDA's Land Use and Building Control Directorate issued a provisional approval letter allowing the commercialisation of 4 kanals and 5 marlas, which included the disputed 18-marla government land.

The businessman had deposited an advance payment of Rs6.35 million out of a total commercialisation fee of Rs1.8 million, with the remainder scheduled for payment in instalments until March 2026.

However, RDA Director General Kinza Murtaza later cancelled the provisional approval, seized the advance deposit, and initiated an inquiry, which confirmed illegal encroachment.

On March 11, the businessman submitted another request to transfer the 18-marla land in his name, but it was rejected. Speaking to The Express Tribune, the RDA DG emphasised that she would ensure strict monitoring of RDA assets and that the encroached land would soon be reclaimed.

The Civil Lines area, considered one of Rawalpindi's most expensive neighbourhoods, also houses several RDA officials' residences.