The Capital Development Authority has yet to implement its flagship pre approved building plans initiative, despite more than two years passing since the policy was approved. The programme was designed to simplify house construction approvals in Islamabad by allowing citizens to build homes using ready made designs without repeated visits to CDA offices.

The CDA Board approved the initiative in September 2023 with a clear eight week deadline. The plan aimed to upload pre approved residential and commercial building designs on the CDA website to eliminate procedural delays and discretionary objections. However, even after more than 100 weeks, no such plans are available online, raising serious concerns about governance and execution.

Sources within the authority say the delay has undermined public confidence in institutional reforms. The original decision envisioned at least 20 pre approved building plans for every plot category and size. These designs were meant to give allottees flexibility while ensuring compliance with zoning and building regulations across Islamabad sectors.

The board had also directed the preparation of a digital booklet containing approved designs for different plot sizes. Citizens could select a plan or submit a custom design if required. The initiative was expected to significantly reduce complaints related to delays, unnecessary objections and lack of transparency in building plan approvals.

Officials familiar with the matter say the proposal was introduced after widespread grievances about prolonged approvals and inconsistent objections by CDA staff. The board also decided that fees for pre approved designs would be finalised in consultation with the finance wing. Despite these directives, implementation has remained stalled.

Responding to queries, CDA spokesperson Shahid Kiani stated that the pre approved building plans portal is in its final stage. He said architectural designs have been completed, but delays occurred due to procurement issues related to hardware for the online system. According to him, fresh tendering is underway and the authority remains committed to launching the portal soon, though no firm timeline has been announced.