Islamabad: The National Assembly Standing Committee on Housing and Works has voiced concerns over delays and escalating costs in government housing projects managed by the Federal Government Employees Housing Authority (FGEHA). The committee, led by Chairman Moulana Abdul Ghafoor Haideri, convened at Parliament House on Wednesday to address these pressing issues.

During the session, the committee raised alarms about the proposed closure of the Pakistan Public Works Department (Pak PWD), warning that such a move could disrupt public sector projects and affect employees. The committee urged the Prime Minister to reconsider this decision and delayed the Pakistan Infrastructure Development and Assets Management Authority Bill, 2004, pending a response from the Prime Minister’s Office.

The committee highlighted significant delays in FGEHA housing projects, noting that these setbacks have led to costs exceeding initial estimates. These overruns have placed financial strains on allottees and affected the financial stability and reputation of the FGEHA. The committee called for accountability in project delays and urged a thorough investigation to identify responsible parties and take necessary actions.

Discussions also covered the status of plot allotments under the journalist quota by the FGEHA. The committee examined the total plots allotted, pending allotments, and allocation criteria, seeking to ensure transparency and fairness in the process for eligible journalists.

The meeting saw attendance from various members, including Honourable Members Mr. Anjum Aqeel Khan, Mr. Nasir Iqbal Bosal, and others, as well as the Minister for Housing and Works, Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada, and senior officers from the Ministry of Housing and Works.