IHC stays CDA action over encroachments

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) consolidated petitions challenging Capital Development Authority (CDA) notices over alleged encroachments around Korang Chowk and adjoining areas, while maintaining its stay order restraining the authority from taking coercive action against the petitioners.

Justice Muhammad Azam Khan issued a one-page written order, granting the CDA and other respondents two weeks to submit their replies to the petitions.

According to the order, the CDA's counsel sought additional time to file a power of attorney and paragraph-wise comments.

The court directed the CDA to complete the requisite proceedings and submit a report within two weeks. It ordered that the consolidated petitions be listed for hearing again after the same period.

The petitioners, including Malik Mumtaz and Zardan Begum, have challenged CDA notices relating to a proposed operation for the construction of a service road in the area.

The court had earlier granted interim relief to the petitioners, restraining the CDA from taking coercive action against them. The hearing was adjourned for two weeks.