CDA and Pakistan Railways Clash Over I-9 Land Ownership Dispute

ISLAMABAD: A significant dispute has emerged between the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Pakistan Railways (PR) over the ownership of a valuable piece of land in Sector I-9, Islamabad, which is estimated to be worth billions of rupees. The contention centers around the construction of godowns and warehouses on this land, with both agencies asserting their claims.

During a board meeting on Thursday, CDA Chairman Sohail Ashraf listened to PR officials regarding the auction of land in I-9, which the CDA contends is part of its right of way. In contrast, PR maintains that the land rightfully belongs to them. Last year, Pakistan Railways auctioned plots located at Dry Port Road in I-9, adjacent to Margalla Railway Station, for the construction of storage facilities.

Following the auction, PR Rawalpindi approved the building plans. However, the CDA intervened, sealing the under-construction structures, labeling them as unauthorized and encroaching on its designated right of way along Service Road North in Sector I-9. The leaseholder subsequently filed a petition in the Islamabad High Court, which, after reviewing the arguments from both sides, referred the case back to the CDA for resolution.

This ongoing dispute raises concerns about land management and regulatory oversight in Islamabad, potentially impacting future development projects and investment in the region. As both parties prepare for further discussions, the outcome of this case could set a precedent for similar disputes in the future.