FGEHA Updates Senate Body on Progress in F-12, G-12

APP

Islamabad: The Director General of the Federal Government Employees Housing Authority (FGEHA) on Thursday provided an update on the progress of Sectors F-12 and G-12 to the Senate Standing Committee on Housing and Works. 

The meeting was chaired by Senator Nasir Mehmood.

The Director General reported that an award of Rs 7.23 million per kanal for these sectors was announced on April 23, 2023. He also noted complications with landowners in Sectors F-14 and F-15, highlighting that weekly hearings are ongoing and Sector F-12 will be launched once the Supreme Court issues its final judgment.

The Committee discussed the progress and issues related to the development of Sectors G-13 and G-14 in detail.

Committee members reviewed the results of the auction of commercial plots held on August 7, 2024. The Executive Board of the FGEHA had approved a proposal on January 31, 2024, to divide a plot from the Federal Government Employees Housing Foundation (EHFPRO) project. This 13-kanal project was divided into three plots to maximize revenue potential in light of current market dynamics, following the Executive Board’s decision on January 11, 2024.

The Director General mentioned that slow project progress has dampened investor interest, despite efforts such as below-the-line advertising. He attributed the lack of investor participation to heavy taxation, noting a tax increase from 43 percent to 63 percent after July 8 as a possible deterrent.

Officials updated the Committee on advertising efforts, which included several advertisements starting from July 5, 2024.

The Chairman of the Committee expressed concern over significant financial losses without tangible results. Senator Khalida Ateeb also pointed out the lack of outcomes despite extensive advertising. Chairman Senator Nasir Mehmood urged the formulation of a pragmatic strategy to address this stagnation.

The Committee received an update on Pak PWD land illegally occupied by TMA Murree (Punjab Government). Officials reported on ongoing civil court cases regarding the Constantia Lodge in Murree. Of the 36-kanal project, 6.8 kanals are controlled by the Ministry, 18 kanals are occupied by TMA Murree, and 12 kanals are held by Faujdar Khan (Chowkidar) and his family.

Legal proceedings have been initiated, and the issue has been brought to the Prime Minister’s attention, who has directed expedited resolution.

Senator Saifullah Abro inquired about officers on deputation and whether any action had been taken against wrongdoers. The Minister of Housing and Works responded that action is underway, and the list will be shared with the Committee.

The members also discussed Senator Raja Nasir’s question regarding laws and rules for the allocation of Imam Bargahs in FGEHA-developed sectors. Officials assured that religious sanctity is preserved during the allocation process.

Chairman Senator Nasir Mehmood directed that laws and rules be formulated to allocate separate religious places, ensuring respect for all religious communities.