ISLAMABAD: The National Accountability Bureau Islamabad Rawalpindi has formally launched an investigation into the private housing project Faisal Town and Faisal Town Phase Two located on Fatehjang Road over alleged violations of approval procedures and the absence of mandatory no objection certificates. The action follows the completion of a preliminary inquiry, according to a press release issued by NAB.

The investigation gained momentum after the District Scrutiny Committee Attock submitted a report stating that the land earmarked for the housing project does not fall within any approved urban or residential zone. Instead, the land has been classified as agricultural and green area, making it legally unsuitable for residential development under existing planning regulations.

In addition, National Engineering Services of Pakistan confirmed in its assessment that future residential needs of Fatehjang have already been catered for within the approved growth area of the existing urban center. The report concluded that there was no planning justification for the development of a new large scale residential scheme at the proposed site.

Following the launch of the investigation, a large number of investors and plot buyers have approached NAB offices to file complaints and submit documentary evidence related to their investments. NAB stated that billions of rupees were allegedly collected from the public through the sale of residential plots despite the project lacking legal approvals.

The probe has reportedly expanded to include the role of various government departments. Officials from the Rawalpindi Development Authority, Punjab Housing and Town Planning Agency and revenue departments in Rawalpindi and Attock are under scrutiny for allegedly facilitating illegal housing activities in violation of applicable laws.

Preliminary findings have also revealed that several unauthorized housing societies were merged into Faisal Town Phase Two without approval. As a result of incomplete development and legal uncertainty, plot values have dropped sharply, causing significant financial losses to investors. NAB officials said the accountability process sends a clear message that illegal housing schemes will not be tolerated.