RAWALPINDI(Bureau Chief Click Pakistan Waseem Hashmi): Residents affected by the University Town housing scheme staged a peaceful protest outside New Airport Police Station in Rawalpindi, demanding justice over long-standing issues related to plots and basic civic facilities.
Despite severe cold weather, protesters gathered to raise their concerns, stating that nearly 8,000 allottees have been waiting for plots and possession for more than 33 years. Speaking to the media, victims’ leader Umar Siddiq Khattak said the society, although approved by the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA), lacks essential amenities including parks, playgrounds, sewerage, drainage systems and street lights, giving the area the appearance of a forest.
Protesters also revealed that funds were collected for the construction of a mosque between 1992 and 2011, but the promised facilities were never provided. Khattak claimed a 26-page report by the Housing Ministry exposed serious irregularities and regulatory failures on the part of the RDA.
The affected residents alleged harassment by the housing society’s management and unnecessary police involvement. They said police actions, including repeated summons and recording of statements, were causing mental distress.
RDA officials stated that a complaint cell and email address had been set up, receiving over 1,000 complaints so far. The Director General RDA has decided to hear grievances at the site instead of offices. Police officials assured that an open forum would be held at the site next week.
The protesters urged Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to take immediate notice and ensure justice.
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