The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) has issued show-cause notices to the owners and chief executive officers (CEOs) of 13 housing schemes over alleged illegal development and marketing activities.
According to the authority, the schemes were involved in unauthorized development, plot booking and advertising without the required approvals. Meanwhile, officials have urged the public to verify the legal status of housing projects before making any investment.
The action forms part of the RDA’s ongoing campaign against illegal housing schemes in Rawalpindi.
Notices Issued Over Alleged Violations
The action was taken by the Metropolitan Planning and Traffic Engineering (MP&TE) Directorate on the directions of the Commissioner of Rawalpindi Division and RDA Director General Salman Ghani.
According to the authority, the housing schemes were allegedly carrying out unauthorized development while promoting and booking plots through various channels, including social media advertisements.
Officials said these activities were conducted without the required legal approvals.
RDA Cites Legal Violations
The authority stated that the housing schemes were found to be violating Section 12(5) of the Punjab Development of Cities Act, 1976.
In addition, they were allegedly in breach of Rule 4 of the Punjab Development Authorities Private Housing Scheme Rules, 2021.
The RDA directed the sponsors of the schemes to immediately stop all marketing and booking activities.
Furthermore, they have been instructed to approach the authority to obtain the required no-objection certificate (NOC) and other mandatory approvals under the law.
Public Advised to Verify Projects
The RDA has advised citizens to exercise caution before investing in any housing project.
Officials urged potential buyers to verify whether a housing scheme has received the necessary legal approvals before purchasing or booking a plot.
According to the authority, checking a project’s legal status can help protect investors from financial losses.
Warning of Strict Legal Action
The authority warned that strict legal action will be taken against those who fail to comply with its directions.
Meanwhile, RDA Director General Salman Ghani instructed the MP&TE Directorate to continue its enforcement campaign against unauthorized housing schemes.
The directive also covers illegal commercial activities, unauthorized booking offices and encroachments.
Officials said the crackdown will continue without fear or favour as part of efforts to ensure lawful urban development and protect public interest.
