Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has instructed the Ministry of Housing and Works to adopt innovative marketing strategies and develop comprehensive investment plans for its ongoing and upcoming projects. These directives were issued during a recent sectoral briefing, where detailed discussions were held on various housing projects and their potential benefits for the public.
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of transparency, directing the Ministry of Housing and Works to conduct third-party validation of all Pakistan Housing Authority (PHA) projects through a reputed firm. He also recommended making this practice a regular feature to ensure quality and accountability.
National Housing Policy by March 2025
In a significant move, the Ministry of Housing and Works has been tasked with finalizing and presenting the National Housing Policy to the Federal Cabinet by March 2025. Meanwhile, the Cabinet Division has directed the Federal Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA), in consultation with provincial PPRAs, to establish a mechanism for sharing information on blacklisted firms, ensuring their exclusion from procurement processes nationwide.
The Prime Minister called for the prompt completion of low-cost housing projects, such as the Peshawar Project and the Sky Garden Project. He directed the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to collaborate with the Ministry of Housing and Works to prepare for the inauguration ceremony of the Sky Garden Project, resolving any land revenue issues in coordination with the Punjab Government.
Long-Term Investment Proposals
The Ministry of Housing and Works has been instructed to develop long-term investment project proposals, including plans for a seven-star hotel in the G-13 Mauve Area of Islamabad. This proposal will be reviewed by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
Additionally, the Director General of the Federal Government Employees Housing Authority (FGEHA) will prepare a comprehensive presentation for the Prime Minister, prioritizing projects with detailed business plans and timelines. This presentation will include a video showcasing project features, such as road connectivity and other key attributes.
To enhance the appeal of future projects, the Ministry has been directed to focus on recreational activities in its plans for Murree. The FGEHA was also instructed to create dynamic brochures for project promotion and hire a public relations firm to manage marketing campaigns.
Digital Inventory of Public Properties
The Prime Minister tasked the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecom to collaborate with all ministries and organizations to develop a digital inventory of public and government properties, streamlining management and oversight.
Addressing the issue of amenities for residents of PHA Kuri Road, the Prime Minister directed the convening of a meeting with society heads to resolve these concerns. He also urged the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to consider allocating land for low-cost housing schemes.
Modern Presentation Tools
In a push for modernization, the Prime Minister instructed all future presentations for his office to utilize dynamic and modern tools. The Minister for Information will coordinate with secretaries to ensure these changes are implemented.
These directives reflect the government’s commitment to improving transparency, efficiency, and public engagement in the housing sector, aligning with its broader goals of sustainable urban development.
Samra Zulfiqar, a real estate analyst at Zameen.com, is passionate about finding projects that offer buyers the best returns. Her keen insights spotlight the market’s most promising opportunities.
