The government of Pakistan have approved new regulations and has set up a framework aimed at upgrading slum areas in the federal capital, Islamabad.
The move is seen as an effort to improve living conditions and bring informal settlements into the city’s formal planning system.
Officials say the rules provide a clear framework for how these areas will be identified and improved.
Focus on basic services
Many informal settlements in Islamabad lack essential facilities such as clean water, sanitation, and proper roads.
The new regulations are expected to guide the development of such services in these areas.
Instead of focusing only on eviction or demolition, the plan aims to improve existing settlements so residents can access basic infrastructure.
Slum area: ‘Katchi Abadis’ in the capital
Like other major cities in Pakistan, Islamabad has seen an increase in the slum areas as people move from rural areas in search of work.
This has added pressure on the city’s housing system, particularly for low-income groups, as the katchi abadi population is increasing shockingly.
Officials say the new rules reflect a shift towards addressing these challenges through planned development rather than short-term measures.
Implementation challenges ahead
With the framework now approved, attention will turn to how it is put into practice.
Upgrading slum areas is expected to require coordination between several government departments.
The regulations are likely to define the roles of different stakeholders, including public agencies, local residents, and private contractors involved in development work.
Housing continues to be a major issue in the capital, where demand for affordable homes exceeds supply.
Authorities hope the new approach will help improve living conditions for many residents while gradually integrating these areas into the city’s wider urban system.
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