RDA Launches Crackdown Against Illegal Construction in Rawalpindi

Acting on the directives of Director General Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) Kinza Murtaza, the RDA Enforcement Squad initiated a special monsoon enforcement campaign on Wednesday to safeguard public safety. The operation primarily targets hazardous and unauthorized constructions along natural drains and encroachments near vital water bodies across the city.

As part of the drive, 10 notices were issued to property owners responsible for unsafe structures and unlawful constructions on key routes, including Adyala Road, Dhamial Road, Dhamial-Kalyal Link Road, and nearby localities. The initiative aims to eliminate encroachments and reduce risks posed by illegal buildings that obstruct stormwater flow, potentially worsening urban flooding during heavy rains.

The enforcement operation commenced on Adyala Road and proceeded to Jawa Dam, Misriot Dam, Dhamial Road, and the Dhamial-Kalyal Link Road. Detailed inspections were carried out at Jawa and Misriot Dams to identify vulnerabilities that could trigger flooding or water contamination during the ongoing monsoon season.

DG Kinza Murtaza stressed that RDA is fully committed to public safety and will take decisive action against illegal and unsafe structures, particularly those built on or near drainage channels. She instructed enforcement teams to ensure impartial action against violators.

She noted that these measures align with the clear directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, who has enforced a strict zero-tolerance stance on encroachments and unauthorized developments.

Highlighting the broader vision of the authority, the DG emphasized that such drives are part of RDA’s strategy for sustainable urban management and protection of the city’s infrastructure against climate change-induced extreme weather events. Citizens have been urged to cooperate and refrain from illegal construction, especially on encroached areas near nullahs and dams.

The enforcement activity was led by Assistant Director Building Control Shiza Tanweer, alongside Building Surveyor Aamir Mahmood Malik and other officials, focusing on high-risk locations around major drainage and water bodies.