CDA approves urban regeneration plan for recognised katchi abadis

ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) on Tuesday approved new regulations to upgrade and regularise recognised informal settlements (katchi abadis) in the capital and reviewed plans to build a model graveyard to meet the needs of the city’s growing population.

The decisions were taken at the second meeting of the CDA board chaired by Muhammad Ali Randhawa, who also serves as Chief Commissioner Islamabad, according to an official statement.

The board approved the Islamabad Capital Territory Urban Regeneration/Renewal (Regulations, Upgradation and Relocation) Regulations 2025, in light of directives from the Supreme Court of Pakistan and under the CDA Ordinance 1960.

The regulations aim to regulate and upgrade recognised katchi abadis (informal settlements) in the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT).

These settlements were declared regular by the federal government between 1995 and 2004.

Under the new framework, only those residents found living in the settlements in a survey conducted up to December 31, 2002, will be considered eligible beneficiaries.

The CDA’s Planning Wing will conduct a fresh survey of the recognised settlements to prepare upgradation and rehabilitation schemes.

The plans include preparation of layout plans, infrastructure improvement, provision of basic facilities, and construction and repair of roads and streets.

The CDA said the measures are intended to formally integrate these settlements into Islamabad’s urban planning framework and promote more organised development in the federal capital.

Separately, the board reviewed a design proposal for the construction of a model graveyard at Pandorian in Islamabad to address the needs of the city’s expanding population.

Randhawa directed that the facility should include a spacious funeral area, ablution spaces, public toilets, adequate parking, ambulance and funeral transport services, as well as CCTV surveillance.

He said that the project should meet high construction standards and incorporate modern amenities.