QR code system to curb plot fraud

Initiative aims to end decades-long malpractice of selling non-existent plots through files

RAWALPINDI:

The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) has introduced a robust and foolproof mechanism to curb fraudulent practices associated with the sale of plots through files in excess of the approved capacity within housing schemes.

Under the new system, housing schemes will only be permitted to sell the number of plots specified in their RDA-approved layout plans, through the issuance of QR code–based allotment letters.

Each approved housing scheme will receive a specific number of QR codes from the RDA, corresponding to the number of plots included in its sanctioned layout plan. By scanning the QR code printed on an allotment letter, citizens will be able to instantly access comprehensive details about the housing project, including its approval status with the RDA.

The Authority also plans to launch a public awareness campaign in the near future to familiarise citizens with this new QR code system.

According to available information, for many years even RDA-approved housing schemes have been involved in the malpractice of selling plots far in excess of the actual land capacity—often through files alone. Prospective buyers were misled with false assurances of future project extensions and were persuaded to purchase such files.

In certain instances, developers secured initial approvals without surrendering land reserved for essential public amenities such as roads, public parks, mosques, commercial areas, playgrounds, graveyards, dispensaries, and other community facilities.

In other cases, even after the required land had been surrendered to the RDA, these facilities were not provided to those who purchased plots and built homes within the schemes.

For the first time, the RDA—under the leadership of Director General Kanizah Murtaza—has introduced an extensive QR code–based system designed to put a complete end to the illicit sale of non-existent plots through files in approved housing schemes. To ensure citizens are well-informed about this development, the Authority will soon roll out an awareness campaign.

Going forward, every allotment letter issued for a plot within an approved housing scheme will bear an official RDA-issued QR code.

Scanning this code will provide immediate access to critical information, including the project's approval status, the total number of residential and commercial plots, individual plot numbers, and other relevant details.