LAHORE: The Punjab government has decided to launch Prime Minister’s Naya Pakistan Housing Scheme (NPHS) and other low-cost projects under the supervision of the Punjab Housing and Town Planning Agency (PHATA) in the province.

The decision was taken in a meeting of the housing task force headed by the Provincial Minister for Housing and Urban Development Mian Mehmoodur Rasheed. It was attended by Chairman Yaqoob Tahir, Nespak’s Managing Director Dr Tahir Masood and representatives of the Housing Department, Bank of Punjab and builders/developers.

The minister said the capacity building of PHATA officials would be enhanced with a view to execute the scheme. “The institution would be equipped with all modern facilities,” he added. He said the legal framework for the launch of low cost housing units was under process and necessary amendments in existing laws would also be introduced.

He said the private sector would be highly encouraged to participate in the establishment of low cost units and it would be provided with certain incentives. A comprehensive policy would be chalked out in consultation with builders and developers, he said.

Published in Dawn, February 27th, 2019