ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly Standing Committee on House and Library has declined the Capital Development Authority’s request for additional funds to complete ongoing works around the new Parliament Lodges. The committee made the decision during a meeting held at Parliament House, chaired by Deputy Speaker Ghulam Mustafa Shah. Members stated that no supplementary budget beyond the already approved allocation would be recommended.

During the briefing, CDA representatives informed the committee that work on 104 family suites at the Parliament Lodges was nearing completion, with one model suite already finished. However, they argued that additional funds were needed to finalize surrounding infrastructure, including roads, parking facilities, and servant quarters. The committee reiterated that the allocated amount was sufficient and asked CDA to utilize the current budget more efficiently.

Committee member MNA Aliya Kamran stressed the importance of timely completion while ensuring quality. She emphasized that the authority must also recover costs from contractors responsible for any sub-standard construction. The committee further discussed the recent theft incident at the family suite of MNA Aamir Magsi. It was revealed that no CCTV cameras were installed at the affected location. Members expressed serious concern and directed that surveillance cameras be installed at all uncovered areas without delay.

DIG Security briefed the committee on the security situation in the Red Zone and at the Parliament Lodges. He informed members that 56 CCTV cameras had already been installed but noted that some were still non-functional. MNA Nabeel Gabol highlighted gaps in internal security coverage and urged improvement in camera installation standards. CDA officials assured the committee that all security cameras would be fully operational within one week.

Additionally, the committee voiced dissatisfaction over poor cleanliness and maintenance at the MNA Hostel. It instructed authorities to take urgent steps to improve sanitation standards. Later, the committee visited the Parliament Lodges construction site to review progress. The deputy speaker directed concerned departments to expedite remaining works and ensure timely completion of all suites as a top priority.