CDA faces deadline to resolve PIDE’s Rs4bn land dispute

September 03, 2026 (MLN): The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has been directed to either provide suitable land to the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE) or refund around Rs4 billion deposited by the institution, amid a prolonged delay in resolving the matter.

Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal expressed serious concern over the delay, noting that PIDE had deposited approximately Rs4 billion with the CDA between 2017 and 2020 but had not received the required land despite the passage of six years.

He said PIDE had been pursuing the matter with the CDA since 2022, while land allocated to the institution had frequently been found to have legal or ownership issues.

The minister directed the CDA to provide an immediate and clear response, stressing that the matter could no longer remain pending, according to APP.

The minister also reviewed progress on the Kachhi Canal Phase-II project and directed authorities to ensure the highest standards of construction quality and strict compliance at every stage. He further called for the Government of Balochistan to be taken on board regarding all available options for effective, transparent and coordinated implementation.

Delays in completing the 35-kilometre road connecting Loralai and Zhob were also reviewed, with measures considered to ensure timely completion in line with the Prime Minister's directives.

Regarding the Allama Iqbal Memorial and Iqbal Library project, Ahsan Iqbal directed that the facility be developed according to international standards and serve as a role model for other cities.

He noted that the coming year would be observed as the Year of Allama Iqbal and directed that work on the project begin without further delay. He also instructed the CDA to move the summary concerning the library within three days.

The minister directed all concerned authorities to accelerate progress on the projects and matters discussed and ensure implementation of the Prime Minister's directives within the stipulated timelines.

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