Islamabad, Mar 21, 2025: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has decided to allocate land to the Higher Education Commission (HEC) for the establishment of two universities in Sector I-17. Previously, in 2007, HEC was allotted 250 acres in the Kuri area, but due to unresolved land ownership disputes, possession was never transferred.
Recently, the CDA, in collaboration with the Defense Housing Authority (DHA), launched the Margalla Enclave Housing Project in Sector I-17. As part of this initiative, the CDA Board resolved to relocate all government educational institutions originally allotted land in Kuri to Sector I-17 instead.
A CDA representative confirmed, “The CDA Board and the federal government have fully approved the reassignment of designated plots for universities and educational institutions to the Institutional Sector (I-17).
This sector will specifically host higher education institutions.”
Additionally, the Margalla Enclave project in Kurri Model Village has received official approval from both the CDA Board and the federal government.
According to HEC officials, the commission had initially secured 250 acres in 2007 from CDA to develop the University of Engineering, Sciences, and Technology.
The authorities designated 35 acres for the National University of Law out of this allocation.
However, due to longstanding land encroachment issues, neither institution could take possession.
HEC is now actively seeking either the original land or a suitable alternative. “A meeting with CDA will be arranged soon to address the matter,” an HEC official stated.
CDA has assured HEC that alternative land in Sector I-17 will be provided.
“We are offering relocation in I-17, similar to how we have accommodated the Federal Investigation Agency and other government bodies,” a CDA official confirmed.
Sources within HEC also pointed out that aside from university land, the commission possesses several prime plots in commercial zones of Islamabad, such as G-11 and I-8, which remain undeveloped.
“HEC must secure its land and expedite the construction process,” an HEC representative emphasized
. If CDA follows through on its promise to allocate land in I-17, HEC must act promptly to avoid future encroachment issues.
Read More:
Politics and Sleep: How to Stay Rested in Pakistan
CDA had originally acquired 3,200 acres in Kuri, Mojohan, and Rehala revenue estates in Zone IV during the 1970s. However, resistance from local landowners hindered full possession.
Recently, CDA and DHA successfully acquired 10,000 Kanal, enabling the launch of the Margalla Enclave joint venture.
Under this agreement, CDA will receive a 55% share in plots, while DHA will retain 45%. The project’s development, managed by DHA, is progressing swiftly to meet its objectives.
