ISLAMABAD: The Federal Cabinet has approved the National Housing Policy 2026, ending a nearly 25-year wait for an updated national housing framework. Pakistan last approved a national housing policy in 2001. The new policy aims to address the country’s housing shortage and growing urban development challenges.
The cabinet approved the policy during its latest meeting. It also approved an implementation plan and directed housing projects to follow zoning laws. The government will also promote vertical construction to use land more efficiently.
Federal Minister for Housing and Works Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada welcomed the approval. He described it as a historic achievement for the ministry.
Policy Focuses on Affordable Housing
The National Housing Policy 2026 seeks to expand access to adequate, affordable and sustainable housing. It also aims to improve access to basic services and supporting infrastructure.
The policy covers nine major areas of the housing sector. These include land for housing, housing finance and construction services.
It also focuses on modern technology and building materials. In addition, the framework addresses intermediate and secondary towns, slums and katchi abadis.
Affordable housing and rural housing also form important parts of the policy. Capacity building and knowledge sharing complete the nine strategic themes.
Furthermore, the policy promotes climate-resilient and environmentally sustainable housing. It also supports institutional and legal reforms across the sector.
New Direction for Pakistan’s Housing Sector
The government expects the new framework to provide clear direction for housing and urban planning. It will also help address Pakistan’s growing housing deficit and changing urban needs. The policy comes as cities face increasing pressure from population growth and limited land. Therefore, efficient planning and sustainable construction have become increasingly important.
The Ministry of Housing and Works has also made the draft policy available on its official website. Citizens and stakeholders can review the document for information and reference. The approval marks a major step toward creating a coordinated national approach to housing. It also gives the government a framework to promote affordable homes, better planning and sustainable urban development.
