ISLAMABAD: In the heart of the federal capital, the once-celebrated G-6 residential flats have turned into a symbol of official neglect, illegal occupation and institutional failure. Built to provide modern housing for government employees, the 200-apartment complex near Aabpara Market now stands in a state of alarming decay, with broken sewerage lines, missing utility meters and crumbling infrastructure.

The Capital Development Authority completed the project in 2003 under a redevelopment plan approved by the Federal Cabinet in 1998 during the second tenure of Nawaz Sharif. The flats were intended to replace aging government quarters and offer secure accommodation to federal employees. However, unresolved arrangements with the housing ministry delayed formal allotment.

Following the 2005 earthquake, the apartments were temporarily used to shelter displaced families. During the 2007 Lal Masjid operation, police personnel began occupying the units. Over time, many flats were allegedly taken over by Islamabad Police officials, CDA employees, staff of federal departments and even private individuals.

A joint survey conducted by the CDA and the Estate Office found that most of the 200 units remain under unauthorized possession. Residents and officials say the complex has been reduced to a near-abandoned structure where leaking pipes, overflowing sewage and damaged utilities reflect years of indifference.

The Islamabad High Court ruled against the illegal occupation, and the Supreme Court of Pakistan upheld the decision. The courts directed the Inspector General of Police and the Ministry of Interior to register criminal cases, initiate departmental proceedings and submit compliance reports.

CDA spokesman Shahid Kiani said the authority would review the issue and proceed in accordance with the law. Yet for many, the G-6 flats remain a stark reminder of how one of Islamabad’s most ambitious housing projects was overtaken by encroachment and left to rot.