Islamabad: The Senate Standing Committee on Housing and Works convened on Friday at the Parliament House, chaired by Senator Nasir Mehmood, to address serious concerns regarding rent irregularities, illegal occupancy of government properties, and issues related to the Lifestyle Residency Project and the Federal Government Employees Housing Authority (FGEHA).
The meeting, attended by various senators and senior officials, spotlighted the problem of retired government officers occupying official residences in Islamabad. The Federal Minister for Housing and Works revealed that 10 such accommodations are retained by retirees, often due to post-retirement re-employment. The ministry’s response left the committee unsatisfied, prompting further investigation.
The committee also examined the 38-kanal Constantia Estate at Kashmir Point, Murree. Efforts are underway to verify the title in favor of the Pakistan Public Works Department, and legal action is being considered against unauthorized occupants. The estate’s security functions have been transferred to the Estate Office, with plans to construct a boundary wall.
Outstanding rent payments by government entities were another focus. The Prime Minister’s Office has directed the Ministry of Law and Justice to finalize a rental agreement for the Federal Lodge in Lahore and settle dues exceeding Rs. 67 million. The committee demanded a report on the payment status within three months.
Additionally, the committee addressed the illegal establishment of a police station by Punjab Police on residential property in Lahore, instructing the Ministry to produce an evacuation letter.
The transfer of 3,178 maintenance staff employees from Pak-PWD to other departments was reviewed, with most employees receiving uninterrupted salaries. The Ministry of Housing and Works is working on finalizing pension and gratuity transfers, prioritizing retirees.
Discussions extended to the FGEHA’s auction and lease policy for commercial plots in Islamabad, emphasizing transparent bidding processes. The committee also reviewed a joint venture with the Ministry of Defence for a fuel station plot, alongside commitments to develop a greenbelt as part of a CSR initiative.
In conclusion, the Chairman of the Committee stressed the importance of compliance, transparency, and accountability, directing ministries to adhere to the Prime Minister’s directives and report back within three months, warning of enforcement measures for non-compliance.