RDA Warns Public to Check Status of Real Estate Projects Before Investment

The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) has issued a public advisory urging citizens to verify the status of housing societies before making any real estate investments.

Director General Kinza Murtaza advised potential investors to utilize the resources available at the RDA office or visit the official website, www.rda.gop.pk, to obtain accurate information regarding the legality of housing societies. She highlighted that, as of now, 71 housing schemes have been approved in Rawalpindi, 74 are under review, and a staggering 359 schemes have been identified as illegal.

“The status of housing schemes is regularly updated on the RDA website, and we are committed to spreading awareness among the public,” Murtaza stated.

The RDA has been actively monitoring and regulating ongoing housing schemes, with a mandate to take legal action against illegal developments. To date, the authority has issued legal notices to 560 schemes, with 218 societies facing formal charges and their cases referred to the magistrate’s court. Additionally, 221 First Information Reports (FIRs) have been lodged against violators of the rules.

In a bid to enforce compliance, the RDA has taken stringent measures, including sealing the offices of 184 schemes and demolishing illegal constructions, offices, and main gates of 200 societies.

The RDA has also sought the assistance of the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) Cyber Crime Wing to combat illegal advertisements, plot bookings, and publicity campaigns related to unauthorized housing schemes.

The Punjab Development Authority, Private Housing Scheme Rules 2021, are being strictly enforced, with the RDA making concerted efforts to take legal action against rule violators. “All-out efforts are being made to ensure compliance with the law,” Murtaza affirmed.