ISLAMABAD: The interior ministry on Wednesday said that a vigorous operation is underway in Saidpur Model Village against encroachments and illegal constructions.

“So far, 200 illegal structures have been demolished, while 191 kanals of National Park have been retrieved from illegal occupants. Buildings occupied by tenants who had not paid rent for years have been vacated. A non-discriminatory operation is continuing against illegal constructions built on 360 kanals after 2005,” says a press release issued by the ministry.

It said that the Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited Saidpur Model Village and reviewed the operation. He also inspected progress on the upgradation and beautification works of Saidpur Village and ordered indiscriminate action against encroachments and illegal constructions in the surroundings of Saidpur Village. He directed that the vacated buildings should be auctioned in a transparent manner.

According to the press release, the interior minister appreciated CDA’s performance in the anti-encroachment operation. He said that eliminating every form of illegal construction in the area is our priority. He further announced that renowned restaurants and brands from Karachi and Lahore would be brought to Saidpur Village. He added that the revival of Saidpur Village will enhance the beauty of Islamabad and provide citizens with a new recreational spot.

Mohsin Naqvi emphasised that all resources should be utilised to develop Saidpur Village into a world-class recreational centre.

The minister instructed CDA and DMA officials to ensure cleanliness around the village. He said that Saidpur Village would become Islamabad’s new commercial hub where tourists would be provided with quality facilities.

CDA Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa apprised the minister that through satellite imagery, structures built after 2005 are being identified, and the green cover of Saidpur Model Village is being restored.

Members of CDA, ADC (G), SSP Operations, and other relevant officials were also present on the occasion, the press release concluded.

Published in Dawn, August 21st, 2025