CDA issues vacation notices to residents of Bhara Kahu, surrounding areas

ISLAMABAD: Residents of Bhara Kahu, Kot Hathial, Jumma Bazar, Janjua Town, New Mangial, Subhan Mandla, and nearby areas are facing uncertainty after the Capital Development Authority (CDA) issued vacation notices saying the land in these localities belongs to the civic agency.

According to official sources, under CDA policy, homeowners in these areas may be compensated at Rs1,300 per square foot for properties located on CDA land.

However, individuals deemed illegal occupants have been instructed to vacate their homes within two days, which has sparked alarm among local residents.

Residents said that they have been living in these areas for years, with having electricity, gas and water connections.

They described sudden eviction notices as unjust and disruptive. Local people have called on the government and CDA authorities to provide adequate time, conduct transparent surveys, and ensure full rehabilitation of affected families.

CDA officials said the operation is part of efforts to recover state land and enforce the master plan for the city.

Bhara Kahu and other areas have long been points of controversy due to illegal housing schemes and encroachments.

According to CDA records, multiple housing societies in these zones were established without proper approvals, often facilitated by corrupt practices.

CDA officers have been accused of accepting bribes to allow unauthorised constructions, enabling illegal colonies to flourish over the years.

Critics question why such large-scale encroachments were allowed to develop in the first place and are now being abruptly targeted, leaving long-time residents at risk of losing homes despite years of occupancy.

This has raised concerns over governance, accountability, and fairness, as affected residents demand clarity on how and why CDA allowed these violations to occur before taking action.

A CDA spokesperson could not be reached for comments despite repeated attempts.