ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has restrained the Capital Development Authority (CDA) from taking any demolition action against residential properties in Ghauri Town Phase 7, Islamabad, granting interim relief to thousands of affected residents.
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Justice Muhammad Azam Khan issued the written order while hearing a petition filed by Advocate Mohammad Asif Gujar, who challenged the legality of demolition notices served by the civic authority.
The court directed the CDA and other relevant respondents to submit their replies, formally initiating proceedings into the matter. Until a final decision is reached, the CDA has been barred from taking any adverse action against the petitioner and similarly placed residents.
According to the petition, the CDA had issued demolition notices on February 24, sparking concern among residents of the locality. The petitioner argued that the timing of the notices during the holy month of Ramazan caused significant distress to nearly 20,000 people living in Ghauri Town Phase 7.
The plea highlighted that such actions not only disrupted the peace of the community but also raised serious humanitarian concerns, particularly during a month associated with religious observance and reflection.
In addition to seeking a halt to demolition activities, the petitioner urged the court to direct authorities to regularise the area in line with the precedent set in the Bani Gala case. The petition also called for the provision of essential utilities, including electricity and gas, to residents who have long faced infrastructal challenges.
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The case is expected to proceed after the concerned authorities submit their responses, with residents awaiting a decision that could significantly impact their future.