ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan has taken notice of the alleged violation of building codes and non-conforming use of four commercial plots in I-11 and sought a report from the Capital Development Authority (CDA).

Source said Secretary to Prime Minister Azam Khan in a letter had directed the CDA to furnish the report.

The letter dated Sept 5, which was received in the CDA a few days ago, stated: “The prime minister has taken serious notice of viral contents on social media regarding illegal construction on plot number 3, 4, 5 and 6 at Khayaban-i-Sir Syed, sector I-11/4.” Therefore, a detailed report should be submitted within 24 hours.

Sources said the plots were allotted in 1985 to the Ministry of Defence for Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to set up duty free shops.

Currently, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is the custodian of the plots. In the past, building plans were also approved by the CDA for duty free shops but other commercial units such as showrooms have been set up on the plots.

When contacted, CDA spokesperson Syed Safdar Ali confirmed that the prime minster had taken notice of the non-conforming use of the plots.

“A team from the Building Control Section (BCS) visited the site and found that the plots were being used other than the purpose of allotment which is non-conforming use.”

He said: “We have issued notice to the PIA to remove the non-conforming use in 15 days.”

After expiry of the notice, if the non-conforming use of the plots was not removed the CDA would take action, he added.

In reply to a question, the spokesperson said a report had been submitted to the prime minister.

Published in Dawn, September 14th, 2019