Neglected dreams: G-14/1 still awaits development

Plot owners have now appealed to the Supreme Court of Pakistan and relevant authorities to take urgent suo motu notice of the matter. They argue that the issue should be treated not merely as a matter of development but one of justice and equity. After paying full dues and fulfilling all requirements, they deserve timely possession — or at the very least, a concrete timeline and action plan

ISLAMABAD, MAY 11 /DNA/ – Sector G-14, a residential sector of Islamabad announced in 2004 under the Capital Development Authority (CDA), remains a symbol of chronic administrative neglect and failed urban planning. Of its four sub-sectors — G-14/1, G-14/2, G-14/3, and G-14/4 — only the latter three have seen partial development over the past two decades. G-14/1, however, continues to remain in limbo, largely due to illegal encroachments and a persistent lack of political will to address the issue.

The sector, meant to accommodate federal government employees through the Federal Government Employees Housing Authority (FGEHA), was a beacon of hope for thousands of allottees. Many invested their life savings with the dream of owning a home in Islamabad. Two decades later, that dream remains unfulfilled for many — and tragically, several allottees have passed away while waiting for possession of their plots in G-14/1.

The key obstacle in the development of G-14/1 has been the failure to vacate the illegally occupied land. Despite repeated efforts, FGEHA and CDA have failed to remove the encroachments and initiate development. The presence of unauthorized constructions — often built with the implicit support of local influential groups — has not only stalled progress but also made legal allottees suffer in silence.

During the tenure of Prime Minister Imran Khan, an anti-encroachment operation was finally launched with high hopes. Bulldozers rolled into the area, and initial action signaled a shift towards reclaiming the long-stalled land. However, the operation was abruptly halted, allegedly due to political pressure. Sector G-14/1 fell within the constituency of former minister Asad Umar, and residents claim that political interference led to the discontinuation of the operation. This decision dashed hopes and reinforced the perception that ordinary citizens’ rights are secondary to political expediency.

Unfortunately, the current government has done little to change the status quo. While plots in G-14/2, 3, and 4 have seen infrastructure development — including roads, sewerage systems, and partial possession — the complete silence over G-14/1 continues to frustrate the affected families. The absence of accountability within the FGEHA and a lack of commitment by elected representatives have left residents feeling abandoned.

For many plot owners, this issue is more than just an administrative delay — it’s a matter of human rights. Every citizen has the right to shelter, and for many government servants who have retired and waited for years, it’s a violation of dignity to be denied what is rightfully theirs. The mental anguish, financial burden, and emotional distress suffered by these families cannot be overstated.

Plot owners have now appealed to the Supreme Court of Pakistan and relevant authorities to take urgent suo motu notice of the matter. They argue that the issue should be treated not merely as a matter of development but one of justice and equity. After paying full dues and fulfilling all requirements, they deserve timely possession — or at the very least, a concrete timeline and action plan.

Civil society activists also point out that Islamabad, as the federal capital, should set an example in transparency, rule of law, and planned urban growth. The continued failure to develop G-14/1 tarnishes this image. When powerful land grabbers can stall state-backed development for over 20 years, it sends a damaging message to investors and citizens alike.

Plot holders have also demanded that if FGEHA cannot resolve the matter, the land be taken over by the CDA for expedited action, or that they be offered alternative plots in already developed sectors. At the very least, the state owes these citizens clarity and assurance.

The plight of G-14/1 must not be allowed to become another forgotten file in the corridors of bureaucracy. It is a litmus test for the government’s sincerity in addressing citizens’ concerns. For the many families still holding on to hope, the time for action is now. Bureaucratic red tape, political maneuvering, and institutional apathy have stolen two decades from their lives — they can’t afford to wait any longer.=DNA