CDA Cancels 2,999-Kanal Bahria Town Layout Plan

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has cancelled, with immediate effect, the approved layout plan of Bahria Town's Phase III-E and Phase IV in Islamabad's Zone-5, citing alleged violations of the approved plan and failure to fulfil mandatory conditions for obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC). According to the CDA's Housing Directorate, the layout plan covering around 2,999 kanals was originally approved on December 8, 2010, subject to specific terms and conditions. The authority says Bahria Town failed to fulfil those requirements and complete the prerequisites for securing the scheme's NOC despite the passage of nearly 15 years. The CDA's latest public notice, issued on September 17, confirms the cancellation/withdrawal of the layout plan. The authority has also suspended the processing and approval of other pending cases involving Bahria Town (Pvt) Ltd, describing the company as a 'defaulter.' The dispute also involves land reserved for public amenities. The CDA said Bahria Town had previously been directed to vacate and restore plots designated for parks, playgrounds, open spaces and public buildings in accordance with the approved layout plan. The authority said the company's response to the notice was rejected as it was not considered factually satisfactory. CDA records show that the scheme's NOC had not been issued. The authority's March 2026 correspondence also indicates that Bahria Town had sought approval for a revised and extended layout plan covering 3,251 kanals. CDA identified several outstanding land-document requirements for the additional area, including updated land records, certified khasra plans and non-encumbrance certificates. Another major issue cited by the authority is an audit finding concerning commercial construction along Corniche Road. According to CDA documents, the Directorate General of Federal Audit had raised an audit para for 2023-24 regarding commercial construction allegedly carried out without CDA approval and in violation of the layout plan. The Departmental Accounts Committee, headed by the Interior Ministry secretary, reportedly ordered the removal of structures located on areas identified as riverbed, graveyard and park/open space. The CDA has consequently directed its Enforcement Wing to take action for the demolition or removal of works, buildings and structures constructed in the scheme in violation of the approved plan. The authority's action comes after a series of notices and correspondence dating back several years. CDA's records list multiple show-cause notices issued to Bahria Town during 2025 and 2026 concerning the scheme. Bahria Town, however, has rejected the CDA's decision. A company official termed the action illegal and said Bahria Town had submitted a revised layout plan for approval. According to the official, instead of approving the revised plan, the CDA unilaterally cancelled the previous layout plan. The company has said it will challenge the decision before the available legal forums, including courts. The cancellation therefore marks a significant escalation in the regulatory dispute over the Islamabad-based project, while the legal status of existing development and structures will likely depend on further proceedings and any challenge brought by Bahria Town.