20-year battle draws to close: SCP gives ownership of Shangrila Pines to GDA

Lessee has been in possession of the property for 40 years .

PESHAWAR: In a surprising move a few days back, the Supreme Court of Pakistan (SC) issued orders to transfer ownership rights of Shangrila Pines Hotel, a multi-million property, to Galiyat Development Authority (GDA). According to a press release issued by GDA on Tuesday, the SC set aside all previous judgments of lower courts and issued directives to the opposing party to pay outstanding dues to GDA.

A 20-year-long battle between GDA and lessee of the hotel, Arif Aslam, has finally been closed by the SC, allowing GDA to legally take control of the vintage property after Aslam failed to prove his case. Aslam has been in possession of the said property for 40 years. Built in 1900s, Shangrila Pines Hotel is located in the centre of Nathiagali and covers a vast area of 11 kanals. It consists of 29 rooms, a restaurant and lush green lawns.

The handout said the victory will prove to be a major financial and legal breakthrough for the authority. It added they will be able to recover an amount of Rs30 million in dues, besides regaining possession of vital property worth millions of rupees.

Chief Minister Pervez Khattak has already allowed an amendment to laws which authorise officials of GDA to take prompt action against encroachers, land grabbers and those polluting the environment in the scenic region. A master plan for Galiyat is said to be in the works to provide locals with basic amenities, including a waste disposal system and water supply schemes. As part of the plan, sites would be identified for tourists’ spots and housing sector.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 11^th, 2015.