Comprehensive forensic audit of Punjab housing and town planning agency ordered

LAHORE: The Punjab government has announced a thorough forensic investigation of the Punjab Housing and Town Planning Agency (Phata). A three-member committee has been established to examine Phata's operations concerning housing scheme approvals throughout the province. This decision comes after concerns were raised about Phata approving housing projects in green zones, which is considered improper practice.

The committee is led by Additional Secretary (Admin & Housing) Khurram Shahzad and includes Phata's Estate Management Director Amir Raza, as well as a senior representative from the Board of Revenue. The committee's mandate is to conduct a comprehensive audit of all aspects related to the approval and processing of housing schemes and societies at the divisional headquarters of Punjab during the fiscal year 2025-2026.

The audit will scrutinize various factors, including land-use and zoning status, conversion of agricultural or green areas, the review and approval of layout plans, adherence to mandatory no-objection certificates, collection and recovery of conversion fees and other applicable charges, as well as compliance with relevant laws, rules, regulations, and policies.

The committee will also assess the grant of concessions or relaxations, financial receipts, recoveries, and identify any instances of irregularities, unauthorized approvals, financial losses, or procedural violations. Housing Secretary Noorul Amin Mengal has emphasized that this audit marks a significant step towards transparency, merit, and anti-corruption measures.

The committee will meticulously review Phata's financial and administrative affairs, land-use matters, land-use planning, and related issues. It will closely examine allegations of irregularities, unauthorized changes, and potential financial losses. The committee will also review the affairs of Phata directorates established at all divisional headquarters, examining records and relevant financial and administrative matters to ensure transparency, merit, and adherence to applicable rules.

Upon completion of the audit and fact-finding exercise, the committee will submit its recommendations and report to the relevant authorities. The chief minister's commitment to a corruption-free Punjab will be upheld, ensuring transparency, merit, and compliance with rules and regulations in financial and administrative matters.