ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA), in coordination with the ICT Administration and police, has retrieved approximately 300 acres of prime state land in Noorpur Shahan through a targeted anti-encroachment operation.

The capital administration said the land forms part of 2,146 acres acquired through Awards of 1961, 1963, and 1964, with full compensation duly paid. This included allotment of 4,962 acres in Punjab against cultivable land and cash compensation to 1,589 households for built-up structures. The acquisition remains legally valid and enforceable.

In line with the Supreme Court of Pakistan’s 2011 judgment (Suo Motu Case No.1 of 2011), acquired land vests absolutely with the authority, and no concessions or facilitation of illegal occupants is permissible.

A Model Village scheme (1985) exists only within its notified limits and does not extend to surrounding acquired land.

Encroachments had expanded over a 600-acre belt between 3rd and 4th Avenue, involving unauthorised construction, illegal sale and purchase, rental exploitation, and commercial use. Prior to enforcement, due process was fully observed. Claims were invited from 1–15 January, followed by a speaking order issued by DC CDA on 19 January after hearings and verification. No substantiated claims remained pending.

The operation, conducted between November 2025 and April 2026, identified approximately 3,500 illegal structures. Multiple FIRs have been lodged against those involved in unlawful occupation and profiteering.

The action has been undertaken strictly in accordance with law and Supreme Court directives to restore possession of state land and prevent illegal land transactions. The retrieved land is valued in billions of rupees.

It is clarified that the operation does not target the notified Model Village and is confined to encroachments outside its legal boundary.

CDA reaffirms its commitment to rule of law, protection of public land, and transparent enforcement.

Published in Dawn, April 18th, 2026