ISLAMABAD, AUG 23 /DNA/ – Capital Development Authority (CDA) reviewed commercial building plan approvals during the last four meetings of the Design Vetting Committee (DVC).
According to details, out of 40 commercial building plan cases, 8 cases were withdrawn by the architects and sponsors themselves prior to the meetings due to incomplete documentation and failure to fulfill the required prerequisites. Out of the remaining 32 cases presented before the Design Vetting Committee, 23 cases were approved.
Similarly, a few cases that were deferred were primarily due to the architects’ failure to properly present the basic parking requirements and fundamental planning parameters and designs. The deferred cases will be resubmitted to the DVC once the basic parking requirements and design parameters have been completed in accordance with the prescribed requirements. In this regard, DVC had also issued an advisory to the architects.
In line with the direction of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and CDA Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Chief Commissioner Islamabad Sohail Ashraf, the approval of building plans reflects the commitment to promoting investment in Islamabad and facilitating the business process. While prioritizing the safety of citizens, the CDA is also taking steps to further simplify and streamline the building plan approval process.
At the time of issuance of the final letter by the Design Vetting Committee, the names of the owner along with the architects/consultants, will be clearly mentioned. Similarly, during construction the names of the owner and the architects/consultants will be displayed at the site. This measure will ensure that, in case of any changes to the approved design, legal proceedings may be initiated against the owner as well as the concerned architects/consultants.
It is pertinent to note that while the process is being further simplified and streamlined, new responsibilities are also being assigned to owners, architects/consultants. The meetings of the Design Vetting Committee were held on June 4, June 16, July 30, and August 20, 2026.
CDA’s objective is to simplify all regulatory procedures in the construction sector without unnecessary delays. These approvals of commercial building plans by the CDA will help increase investment opportunities in the Federal Capital, Islamabad, and contribute to the city’s overall construction and development.
CDA is making efforts to bring all pending cases before the DVC and resolve them at the earliest. If any case is not being placed before the DVC, the complainant may visit the Member Planning or Chairman’s Office to register their complaint. CDA also has an online portal for this purpose.
A committee has also been constituted to review cases that have been deferred due to any anomaly and ambiguity in the existing bylaws. The committee will comprise officers from all relevant formations and will review the anomalies in the existing bylaws before preparing its proposals. The committee will also conduct a detailed review of parking parameters, commercial regulations, and other related matters.
Citizens may visit the CDA office to register their complaints regarding the DVC, position certificates, or any other related issues. Timely redressal of all complaints received will be ensured. Similarly, citizens can also share their valuable feedback with the CDA through its online portal regarding DVC matters, land-related issues, or any other relevant concerns.
