The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has officially decided to allocate land to the Higher Education Commission (HEC) for the establishment of two universities in Sector I-17. This move marks a significant step in expanding higher education infrastructure in the region.
Originally, in 2007, CDA had allotted 250 acres of land to HEC in the Kuri area for educational purposes. However, due to complications arising from adverse possession issues, the land was never officially transferred.
In recent developments, CDA, in partnership with the Defense Housing Authority (DHA), introduced the Margalla Enclave Housing Project in Sector I-17. As part of this initiative, the CDA Board resolved that all government educational institutions previously granted land in Kuri would be offered alternative plots in Sector I-17.
A CDA official confirmed the decision, stating, “The plots designated for universities and educational institutions have been relocated to the Institutional Sector (I-17) following approval from the CDA Board and the federal government. This sector has been specifically earmarked for the development of universities and academic institutions.”
This strategic reallocation aims to foster higher education growth while ensuring that universities and institutions receive dedicated spaces for their development.
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has also confirmed that the Margalla Enclave project in Kurri Model Village has received official approval from both the CDA Board and the federal government, paving the way for its development.
Meanwhile, sources within the Higher Education Commission (HEC) revealed that in 2007, HEC had acquired 250 acres from CDA with the intention of establishing the University of Engineering, Sciences, and Technology. Later, 35 acres from this allocation were designated for the National University of Law. However, despite multiple efforts from both HEC and CDA, the land could not be secured, as it remained under the possession of local occupants.
Given these challenges, HEC is now requesting either the handover of the originally allotted land or an alternative allocation to proceed with its plans. “A meeting with CDA will be scheduled soon to discuss this matter,” an HEC official stated, emphasizing the commission’s commitment to resolving the issue and ensuring the development of these institutions.
CDA officials have reassured the Higher Education Commission (HEC) that it will be provided land in Sector I-17 for the construction of universities. “We are offering alternative land in I-17, as we have done for the Federal Investigation Agency and other government institutions,” a CDA representative confirmed.
Meanwhile, sources within HEC pointed out that, in addition to university land, the commission owns several valuable plots in prime commercial areas of Islamabad, including G-11 and I-8. However, these plots remain unused. “HEC must secure its land and initiate construction,” an HEC official stated, emphasizing the need for prompt action. The official further added that if CDA fulfills its commitment to providing alternative land in I-17, HEC must act swiftly to prevent encroachment and ensure timely development.
CDA originally acquired 3,200 acres in Kuri, Mojohan, and Rehala revenue estates in Zone IV during the 1970s. However, due to strong resistance from local landowners, the authority faced difficulties in securing full possession of the land. More recently, in collaboration with DHA, CDA successfully acquired 10,000 Kanal, where the Margalla Enclave joint venture has been launched. Under the terms of this partnership, CDA will receive a 55% share in plots, while DHA will retain 45%. DHA is overseeing the execution of the project, with development currently progressing at full speed.