By Asim Hussain
ISLAMABAD: A meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Housing and Works was held under the chairmanship of Senator Nasir Mehmood to review compliance regarding the absorption and payment of salaries to employees of erstwhile Pak PWD, along with key issues related to public infrastructure, housing schemes, and encroachments.
The meeting was attended by Senator Bilal Ahmed Khan, Senator Hidayat Ullah Khan, Senator Khalida Ateeb, Senator Husna Bano and Senator Naseema Ehsan.
Taking up the matter of absorption and salary payments to the employees of dissolved Pak PWD, the Committee reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a just and fair resolution of all outstanding issues. The Chairman emphasized that safeguarding the rights of employees remains a top priority.
Secretary Housing informed the Committee that out of 3,227 employees, 3,001 have already been absorbed in various departments and are receiving salaries, 193 have been adjusted and salaries would be released soon, while only 33 employees remain to be accommodated.
On the Committee’s directions, the Ministry of Planning assured that 17 employees would be absorbed within 10 days, while the Ministry of Interior committed to adjusting 7 employees shortly. However, the Ministry of Religious Affairs expressed reservations, citing limited vacancies in Hajj Directorate Karachi. The Committee took notice of this stance, directing the Religious Ministry to absorb all remaining employees and submit a compliance report within 10 days, stressing that Cabinet decisions are binding on all departments.
The Committee also addressed concerns raised by employees absorbed in CDA and directed the Authority to resolve their issues and present a detailed report in the next meeting. Additionally, it was noted that five employees allocated to Border Health Services have yet to join, with a recommendation to issue notices for compliance.
Reviewing infrastructure matters, the Committee was briefed on the status of lifts at Shaheed-e-Millat Secretariat. It was informed that two lifts are operational, while funding has been released for the replacement of three lifts within six months.
The Chairman directed authorities to ensure uninterrupted functioning of existing operational lifts and timely completion of replacement work.
The Committee was further updated on the progress of the Model Jail in Islamabad, which is expected to become operational by the end of the current financial year. The Chairman indicated that the Committee would undertake a site visit before the next meeting.
On the issue of Constantia Lodge at Kashmir Point, Murree, the Committee was informed that 38 kanals of land have been identified and fenced, though 6–7 kanals remains encroached and are under litigation. The Committee urged expediting legal proceedings to secure possession.
The Committee also reviewed the status of the Sky Gardens Housing Scheme, noting that the matter is currently pending adjudication, with a decision reserved since April 6, 2026. Chairman directed authorities to remain vigilant and expedite follow-up.
Regarding the Green Enclave-I project of FGEHA, the Committee was informed that 50–55% of work has been completed, with construction set to resume in June 2026 following the resolution of contractual disputes. The Committee appreciated the progress and emphasized timely completion.
Briefing on anti-encroachment operations, officials outlined that all legal procedures are being followed and compensation for affected properties is processed through a transparent mechanism. The Chairman stressed the need for fairness and sensitivity, acknowledging the emotional implications for affected residents. The Secretary Housing assured personal oversight and highlighted plans for land-sharing mechanisms in upcoming sectors, including F-12 and G-12.
Concluding the meeting, the Chairman appreciated the efforts of officials and directed all concerned departments to ensure transparency, justice, and timely execution across all projects.
