RAWALPINDI: The Director General, Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA), Kinza Murtaza, addressing a press conference at Press Club, stated that in line with the directives of the Chief Minister of Punjab, the doors of RDA remain open to the general public. Citizens’ complaints are being actively heard, and timely redressal is being ensured.
The DG RDA emphasized that effective and practical measures are being implemented to further enhance the functioning of the Authority. Regular progress reports on various ongoing development projects in Rawalpindi are being submitted to the Chief Minister, and there are no hurdles in the execution of these projects.
Speaking about the Rawalpindi Ring Road Project, she acknowledged that it was a major challenge but assured that high standards and quality are being maintained. She reported that 78 % of the project has been completed and expressed confidence that it will be fully completed by the end of March 2026.
The DG RDA revealed that 143 fake housing schemes had been identified in Rawalpindi and have now been eliminated. Measures are being taken to address complaints from affected citizens who invested in these housing schemes, and all social media marketing of such schemes has been shut down. She urged citizens to seek complete verification before investing in any housing society.
She further stated that all illegal housing societies are under RDA’s scrutiny, and complete data has been collected for issuing QR codes on housing society files. Housing Societies with valid NOCs are legally recognized, and the QR code system has been activated to protect citizens from fraud. RDA’s actions against illegal housing schemes have also been appreciated by the NAB.
Regarding University Town Housing Scheme, the DG RDA said the matter is well known. To protect affected investors, the society’s owners have been summoned, letters have been sent to NAB and FIA, and steps have been taken to block the national identity cards of the owners. She said a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) is working to resolve issues for the affectees.
In the case of Bahria Town, she said that NAB is conducting investigations, and if required, RDA also has the authority to take over the scheme.
The DG RDA added that efforts are underway to further beautify the city. The Green Line Project will be aesthetically enhanced, and the Chief Traffic Officer has been directed to ensure the safety of motorcyclists. Murree Road will also be widened by 15 feet, with no disruption to businesses during the process.
Under CSR initiatives, housing schemes will install monuments to beautify the city, while special attention is being given to beautification projects and the improvement of green belts.
Regarding Nullah Lai, the DG RDA said further discussions will be held with the Punjab Government, as the Nullah poses a serious threat to public life and property. Rawalpindi lacks an effective sewage system, making it essential to install treatment plants at the city’s exit points. Currently, 33 percent of sewage and the remaining rainwater flow into Nullah Lai, turning it into a polluted drain.
She emphasized that legal provisions are strictly enforced, and dumping of garbage or construction material into Nullah Lai is prohibited. Assistant Commissioners and the Deputy Commissioner have been requested to ensure strict monitoring.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
