Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said affordable housing for low income groups remains a key government priority as authorities review a broad set of reforms aimed at improving transparency, regulating the sector, and encouraging planned urban development.
Chairing a meeting on housing sector reforms, the prime minister said Pakistan’s growing population has made reforms in the housing sector increasingly important.
He said providing housing for lower income groups, promoting affordable housing projects, encouraging private sector participation, and improving public services remain central priorities of the government.
The prime minister also highlighted concerns over rapid and unplanned urban expansion, saying increasing pressure on agricultural land requires a well designed strategy. He directed authorities to digitize and automate all housing related processes to improve transparency and strengthen governance across the sector.
He further said bringing the housing sector under an effective regulatory framework is necessary to attract overseas investors and improve confidence in the market.
During the meeting, officials presented a range of proposals aimed at reforming the sector. A briefing noted that the regulatory framework could be simplified to provide greater facilitation for credible investors and developers in an effort to increase transparency and investment activity.
Authorities also discussed making registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan mandatory for individuals and entities operating in the housing and development sector. Additional proposals included measures to control unplanned urban sprawl, promote vertical expansion through high rise buildings in major cities, and introduce master town planning frameworks.
Officials also reviewed a proposal to establish a one window system designed to protect the interests of developers, buyers, and other stakeholders. Prime Minister Shehbaz directed authorities to hold consultations with provincial governments before moving ahead with the recommendations.
The meeting was attended by senior cabinet members and officials, including ministers overseeing economic affairs, housing, interior, law, finance, and other related departments.1
he will make housing affordable just like electricity, gas, fuel and many other items.