Islamabad (TDI): A high level review meeting on ICT Governance Reforms Committee has resolved to establish a world-class municipal framework for Islamabad considering it as a pressing need.
The meeting, chaired by Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal, deliberated on governance models from the capitals of democratic countries and reviewed challenges faced by Islamabad’s governance system.
Ahsan Iqbal directed the formation of a subcommittee comprising representatives from the MCI, CDA, and elected officials.
This committee is tasked with presenting its recommendations within five days. Additionally, it will examine Islamabad’s local government structure and address issues related to health and educational institutions.
The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination Rana Sanaullah, Minister for Petroleum Musadiq Malik, Barrister Zafarullah Khan, MNA Anjum Aqeel, MNA Raja Khurram Nawaz, MNA Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, Secretary Planning Awais Manzoor Sumra, Secretary Cabinet Kamran Ali, and senior officials from the CDA, Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI) and the Ministry of Planning.
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During the meeting, CDA officials highlighted that the lack of revision in the master plan has resulted in numerous problems requiring immediate resolution.
world-class municipal framework, initial steps
The Minister emphasized the urgency of equipping Islamabad with a modern and accountable governance system, an essential feature of any world-class municipal framework.
He stressed the need to integrate the administrative structures of urban and rural areas while ensuring a clear division of administrative and developmental responsibilities under the ICT governance framework.
The Minister also called for a delineation of roles and responsibilities among the CDA, MCI, and elected representatives to address the issue of limited powers.
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The meeting also discussed the eradication of illegal housing societies. Barrister Zafarullah Khan pointed out that much of Barakahu comprises unauthorized constructions, requiring prompt corrective actions.
MNA Tariq Fazal Chaudhry observed that while laws are in place, their lack of implementation is creating hurdles.
At the end of the meeting the participants resolved to take all necessary steps promptly to achieve the goal of establishing a world-class municipal framework.
