ISLAMABAD: On Thursday, the Senate Standing Committee on Housing and Works held a meeting to discuss various issues related to the ministry.
The committee was informed that out of 241 officials from the Ministry of Housing and Works, PHA, FGEHA, Estate Office, and Pak PWD who were asked to submit affidavits regarding non-ownership of any flat or house in Islamabad, only 57 had complied with the directive.
Senator Saifullah Abro questioned the number of officers on deputation in the Ministry of Housing and Works and its attached departments.
The committee was directed to provide the details in the next meeting and also directed to expedite the process and issue a final notice to non-compliant officials.
Furthermore, the committee also recommended that action should be taken against officers who undertook lease agreements below market value.
The ministry informed that fresh lease agreements will be carried out as per market value and for five years. A new lease policy will be implemented after the expiration of the existing lease period.
In addition, the issue of illegal constructions/encroachments outside the premises and inside the government residential properties was also discussed.
The ministry informed that a comprehensive campaign was started to remove encroachments from government properties and footpaths, and 5,000 notices were issued in this regard.
However, the process was halted after facing severe resistance.
Besides, the committee was also briefed on the payment made against land acquisition and the built-up area in sectors F-14 and F-15 property-wise.
It was informed that a firm was hired to determine the built-up area, and payments were made as per the survey and Google markings.
Moreover, the committee was also updated on the recruitment process followed in the case of Col (retired) Imtiaz Ul Haq Khattak, chief engineer of FGEHA.
The committee was attended by several senators, the Secretary Ministry of Housing and Works, DG FGEHA, and officials from the concerned ministry.
It was also decided that the appointment of a permanent Director General (DG) of the Estate Office will be made at the earliest.
Source: Business Recorder
