The federal cabinet has approved significant amendments to Islamabad’s master plan, marking a transformative step to resolve longstanding boundary disputes between Islamabad and Rawalpindi. These changes include adjustments in land jurisdiction, reclassification of green areas, and exclusion of specific sectors from the Capital Development Authority’s (CDA) Zone I. Let’s explore the implications of these updates.

 Resolving Islamabad-Rawalpindi Boundary Disputes

One of the primary objectives of the updated master plan is to settle jurisdictional disputes between Islamabad and the Rawalpindi Cantonment Board (RCB). The key changes include:

• Inclusion of H-14 in RCB Jurisdiction: The EME College and CMT Golra area in Sector H-14 have been brought under the administrative control of the RCB. This adjustment ensures streamlined governance and resolves municipal overlaps.

• Revised Municipal Boundaries: Areas west of the railway line will now fall under RCB’s administration, while the eastern side will be regulated by CDA’s ICT Building Control Rules.

 Exclusion of Four Sectors from CDA Zone I

The sectors H-13, H-14, H-15, and H-17 have been excluded from CDA’s Zone I. These sectors are no longer subject to CDA’s land acquisition rules. Instead, they will be governed by special regulations. The decision follows CDA’s inability to acquire and develop land in these areas, paving the way for more flexible urban planning.

Special Provisions for H-Series Sectors:

• Buildings in H-13, including the unacquired 300-foot “Right of Way,” can now be regularized under ICT Building Control Rules upon payment of prescribed fees.

• Northern portions previously designated as green areas or buffer zones have been converted into residential zones.

 Changes to “Right of Way” Specifications

To optimize urban development, the cabinet has reduced the “Right of Way” for major avenues:

• Srinagar Highway: The 1,200-foot-wide “Right of Way” north of H-13 has been reduced to 800 feet.

• 13th Avenue: The 600-foot-wide “Right of Way” between H-12 and H-13 has been eliminated.

• 14th and 15th Avenues: Similarly, the 600-foot-wide corridors between H-13 and H-14, as well as H-14 and H-15, have been removed.

These changes aim to align infrastructure development with contemporary urban needs while maximizing land use efficiency.

Reclassification of Green Areas

The master plan revisions include reclassifying portions of green areas into residential sectors. For instance:

• The northern part of H-13, previously designated as a buffer zone, is now a residential sector.

• A 2,700-foot stretch along the Srinagar Highway has also been converted to residential use.

This transformation reflects the increasing demand for housing and a strategic move to balance urban expansion with sustainable development.

 Implications for Real Estate and Urban Development

The master plan revisions are expected to significantly impact Islamabad’s real estate and urban landscape:

• Increased Development Opportunities: The reclassification of green areas and buffer zones into residential sectors opens up new avenues for housing and commercial projects.

• Enhanced Governance: The clear demarcation of municipal boundaries between CDA and RCB ensures more efficient urban management.

• Regulatory Clarity: The introduction of special rules for H-series sectors provides a framework for property owners and developers to regularize constructions.

Importance of the Revised Master Plan

The updated master plan underscores the government’s commitment to resolving urban challenges and fostering sustainable growth. By addressing jurisdictional ambiguities and optimizing land use, the plan lays the groundwork for a more organized and resilient capital city.

Conclusion

Islamabad’s revised master plan marks a pivotal moment in the city’s urban evolution. By redefining boundaries, reclassifying land, and introducing flexible regulations, the government aims to create a more cohesive and efficient framework for development. These changes are poised to benefit residents, developers, and city planners, making Islamabad a model for urban innovation.