ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has failed to implement its pre-approved building plans initiative aimed at simplifying the house construction approval process, despite the original eight-week deadline passing more than two years ago.
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The decision was taken by the CDA Board in September 2023 to provide relief to citizens by eliminating lengthy procedures and frequent visits to various departments for approval of building plans. Under the plan, the CDA was to upload a range of pre-approved residential and commercial building designs on its website, allowing allottees to begin construction directly by selecting a suitable design.
However, even after the lapse of over 100 weeks, no such plans are available online. Sources within the authority said the initiative, which was widely welcomed by residents, appears to have stalled without explanation. According to officials familiar with the plan, at least 20 pre-approved designs for each category and plot size were to be made available to ensure choice and flexibility for homeowners.
They added that if an allottee did not prefer any of the standard designs, the option to submit a custom plan was also to remain open. The initiative was expected to significantly reduce delays, discretionary objections, and complaints of harassment faced by applicants during the approval process.
The CDA Board had also directed the relevant wing to prepare an online booklet of approved designs within eight weeks and determine applicable fees in consultation with the finance wing. Despite repeated assurances, the initiative has not materialised. A few months ago, the incumbent CDA management announced that the system would be launched by the end of November, but the deadline passed without progress.
When contacted, CDA spokesperson Shahid Kiani said the project was in its final implementation phase. He stated that architectural designs for various residential and commercial categories had been finalised, but the launch was delayed due to the procurement of required hardware for the online portal.
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He explained that the initial tendering process received only one bid, forcing the authority to reinitiate procurement. “CDA is committed to launching this portal soon and is focused on completing the necessary infrastructure,” he said.