PAC Raises Alarm Over Billions Lost in Alleged Property Fraud Linked to CDA Land Deals
Pakistan’s Public Accounts Committee raised serious concerns over alleged corruption and financial irregularities involving land transactions managed by the Capital Development Authority. The issue was discussed during a committee meeting where lawmakers reviewed audit findings and examined the status of investigations related to suspected property fraud.
The meeting, chaired by Shahida Akhtar Ali, focused on the CDA’s Audit Report for 2023–24. Committee members carefully reviewed several audit observations that highlighted possible irregularities in land allotments and property transactions within the authority.
Lawmakers expressed frustration over reports suggesting that billions of rupees may have been lost due to questionable land deals and administrative lapses. The committee stressed that such losses not only affect public resources but also undermine confidence in government institutions responsible for managing valuable state land.
Officials confirmed that a number of audit paragraphs had already been forwarded to the Federal Investigation Agency for further investigation. These cases involve allegations of fraud, illegal land allotments, and procedural violations that may have caused significant financial damage.
During the session, Usman Anwar appeared before the committee to provide an update on the status of the investigations. He briefed lawmakers on the progress made so far and explained the steps being taken by the agency to examine the cases in detail.
Committee members pressed for faster progress, emphasizing that accountability must be ensured in cases involving public land and large financial losses. They called for thorough investigations and transparent reporting to determine how the alleged irregularities occurred and who may be responsible.
The discussion highlighted broader concerns about governance and oversight within the Capital Development Authority. As the primary body responsible for urban development and land management in Islamabad, the CDA oversees valuable property assets that require strict regulatory control and transparent administration.
Lawmakers also stressed the need for improved monitoring mechanisms to prevent similar incidents in the future. Strengthening internal checks, enhancing documentation procedures, and increasing coordination with oversight bodies were among the measures suggested during the meeting.
The committee noted that property fraud and irregular land transactions can have far-reaching consequences, including financial losses to the government and legal disputes affecting citizens and investors.
Members concluded that the investigations must be completed without delay so that accountability can be established and appropriate legal action can be taken where necessary. The PAC reiterated that protecting public assets and ensuring transparency in land management should remain a priority for all relevant institutions.
