Quetta: Lawmakers highlight severe challenges facing Urban Planning & QDA, pledge full support for revitalization and transparency
Quetta (6 AM Report): A crucial meeting of the Balochistan Provincial Assembly’s Standing Committee on Urban Planning and Development was held today at the Assembly’s committee room under the chairmanship of Dr. Ashok Kumar. Members of the committee including Abdul Majeed Badini, Kulsoom Niaz Baloch, and Asfandyar Kakar, along with Special Secretary of the Assembly Abdul Rehman, Secretary of Urban Planning and Development, and the Director of Quetta Development Authority (QDA) attended the session.
During the meeting, a comprehensive briefing was given on the roles, performance, and pressing challenges of the Urban Planning and Development Department. Committee members expressed concern over the department operating only two offices in owned premises, with the rest functioning from rented properties. Other key issues highlighted included overlapping jurisdiction with other departments, lack of divisional-level infrastructure, staff and budget shortages, inadequate logistics, and the non-functionality of the Balochistan Housing Authority.
Committee member Kulsoom Niaz Baloch appreciated the department’s relative success in completing development schemes efficiently compared to other departments.
Chairman Dr. Ashok Kumar assured that the committee will fully support the department and raise its concerns on the floor of the Assembly.
In the second session, the committee was briefed on the affairs of the Quetta Development Authority (QDA), which was established under the 1978 ordinance with a mandate to oversee Quetta’s urban development, including road expansion, water and sewerage projects, and public amenities.
However, the QDA is currently grappling with serious issues such as widespread encroachments, a surge in illegal housing schemes, legal hurdles, shortage of skilled staff and machinery, and an ongoing financial crisis. The committee was also informed that several QDA-related matters are under investigation by NAB, FIA, and Anti-Corruption authorities.
To address these challenges, the committee emphasized the need for amendments in existing laws, formulation and implementation of a comprehensive master plan, activation of an anti-encroachment cell, initiation of new legal housing and commercial schemes, and stringent action against illegal developments.
Dr. Ashok Kumar reiterated the committee’s commitment to strengthening the Urban Planning and Development Department and assured that its issues will be strongly advocated in the Assembly.
