Zardari Enacts CDA Amendment Ordinance 2025 with Key Land Reform Measures
President Asif Ali Zardari has signed the CDA Ordinance 2025, which brings significant revisions to the property acquisition and compensation systems under the federal capital’s jurisdiction. The legislation, which has been formally issued in the official gazette, seeks to resolve long-standing issues and reform land management policies in Islamabad.
A fundamental feature of the new CDA Ordinance is the expansion of compensation alternatives for persons whose land is purchased. Moving beyond the old cash-only paradigm, the CDA will be able to provide alternate land pieces or other types of restitution, better aligning compensation with the diverse requirements of affected parties.
Deputy Commissioners have been given more authority, allowing them to award separate contracts for land and building components. This strategic adjustment is expected to improve acquisition processes and reduce bottlenecks that have previously hampered development projects.
In a progressive move, the CDA Ordinance imposes an annual 8% fee on late compensation payments, reinforcing accountability while discouraging administrative delays. This penalty will act as a financial barrier to longer distribution periods, encouraging quick settlements.
The new legal framework also provide a formal foundation for the relocation and rehabilitation of displaced persons. Notably, the CDA Ordinance prioritizes the protection of vulnerable groups in society, such as those with disabilities, juveniles, and those facing legal incapacities. These groups will now benefit from specific measures designed to ensure fair treatment and equitable remuneration.
To further eliminate bureaucratic red tape, the ordinance includes procedures to simplify CDA property transfers. The new approaches are intended to avoid procedural delays that have traditionally irritated landowners and investors alike.
Crucially, the legislation requires the restoration of pre-displacement living standards for persons affected by land acquisition, ensuring that the development drive does not come at the expense of human dignity or livelihoods.
An important retrospective clause has also been included: all unresolved land acquisition and compensation issues before to October 2025 will be dealt under this new legislation. This measure is intended to bring an end to countless lingering conflicts and grievances, paving the way for more efficient land administration in the capital.
Legal commentators have applauded the CDA Ordinance, describing it as a balanced move toward fair land governance and greater civic infrastructure. The CDA and its supporting departments are now responsible for efficiently and transparently implementing the redesigned policy framework.
As Islamabad grows, the CDA Ordinance 2025 is positioned to play a critical role in ensuring equitable urban development and justice for impacted landowners.
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