Islamabad: Federal Minister for Housing and Works, Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada, presided over the 59th Board of Directors meeting of the Pakistan Housing Authority Foundation at the Ministry’s office. The meeting addressed several key issues, including project funding, policy revisions, and security enhancements.

The Board unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting and agreed to waive delayed payment charges for additional costs related to B-Type Blocks 19 to 24 at the I-16/3 project in Islamabad.

In a move to assess commercial viability, the Board directed the initiation of an Expression of Interest for a commercial center at the PHA-F Kuchlak Road project in Quetta. This initiative aims to ensure that funding decisions are made without affecting the residential budget.

A decision was made to shift funds from Silk Bank through an open and competitive bidding process. This follows a previous directive from the Board, seeking to manage financial resources effectively.

To address financial constraints on the I-12/1 project in Islamabad, the Board approved reallocating resources from other projects to arrange short-term loan funding. This decision is expected to facilitate the clearance of outstanding contractor payments.

An update was provided on the Surizai housing scheme in Peshawar, where a temporary police station has been completed. This development allows for enhanced security and support in land acquisition and encroachment removal.

The Board also approved the fiscal year 2024-25 budgetary estimates of Rs. 5.8 million, as suggested by the Finance Committee. The reallocation of surplus funds is aimed at maintaining smooth financial operations.

Further discussions included the adoption of the Joint Venture and Public-Private Partnership policy by the PHAF. The Board resolved to revise its Memorandum and Articles of Association to introduce a more flexible development model for commercial projects, aligning them with public welfare goals.

Minister Pirzada emphasized a policy of zero tolerance regarding disciplinary issues within the Ministry’s subordinate organizations. He instructed departmental heads to maintain strict oversight and ensure compliance with the Prime Minister’s directive to improve ministerial governance.