Vehari Cracks Down on Illegal Housing Colonies

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A growing number of illegal and unapproved housing schemes in Vehari and surrounding areas has raised serious concerns about the potential loss of billions in public investment. Residents and officials warn that unchecked development is endangering both infrastructure and consumer protection.

Acting Deputy Commissioner Babar Suleman has confirmed that enforcement action is now underway against housing projects operating without proper registration. Authorities have started sealing unapproved construction sites and halting sales activities by non-compliant developers.

Despite this crackdown, many colonies continue to operate openly, even after being officially declared illegal. Residents say they are left with substandard living conditions, including dirt roads, poor drainage, and no access to clean water or sewerage systems.

In some areas, developers have sold residential plots without providing any of the promised amenities. Buyers find themselves with no legal protection or support, as the colonies remain outside the oversight of the district council.

According to local sources, up to 95 percent of private housing societies in Vehari have not received official approval from the relevant planning authorities. The number of such colonies continues to rise, further straining municipal services and creating long-term urban planning challenges.

Many developers behind these unregistered schemes are accused of using political influence to avoid legal consequences. Authorities acknowledge that while registry services for these colonies have been blocked, more decisive enforcement measures are still needed.

Deputy Commissioner Suleman has reiterated the government’s firm stance: “If any developer proceeds to sell plots without securing proper registration, legal action will be taken. In some cases, sites are being developed without even applying for approval, which is illegal. We are sealing such sites immediately.”

Only a small number of private colonies have complied with all legal and financial obligations, including paying government dues in full. The district council has now published a list of unregistered schemes and confirmed that legal proceedings are in progress.

A district council spokesperson urged residents to stay vigilant: “We advise citizens not to purchase plots in any colony that has not been officially registered. Verification of legal status can be done directly through our office.”

The government hopes that through public awareness and stricter regulation, it can protect residents from falling prey to unregulated developers and prevent further misuse of urban land.