CDA Proposes to Allot Plots to Private Schools on Rental Basis

Islamabad : The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has proposed a new policy to address the issue of private schools operating in residential areas. The policy suggests allocating plots to private schools on a rental lease basis, and the CDA board will discuss this in their upcoming meeting. Currently, the civic body is not authorized to rent land to any entity. The CDA allots plots to government schools at a subsidized rate, while private schools must purchase plots at market rates. If approved, the CDA will give the plots on rent for 20 to 25 years, and the CDA will generate monthly rent from the school owners. The proposed policy is aimed at helping private schools construct purpose-built campuses and vacate residential areas.

The CDA has identified over 100 available spaces/plots in their sectors, including new ones. The proposed policy would facilitate private schools in moving out of residential areas, with around 400 such schools currently operating there. The CDA would form three categories of schools based on the fee they charge, and ensure a reasonable fee for students. The schools would be charged rent, and the CDA expects to generate approximately Rs1 billion annually from this policy.

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The CDA had previously allotted plots to private schools on nominal rates, but the schools did not pass on any relief to the parents. Hence, officials suggest that the CDA should auction the plots at market values instead of renting them out. Moreover, some private schools had filed court cases against non-conforming use of schools, and to avoid further litigation, the CDA proposed the rental policy.

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In 2019, a committee had proposed giving three years to private schools operating in residential areas for relocation. The committee also proposed opening Montessori and daycare centres in every sector of the city. Private housing societies would be directed to start construction on plots designated for schools, and private schools would be allowed in certain areas on private land. The CDA will offer available plots for schools and colleges, which will be disposed of through a transparent process by a committee comprising members from other ministries.

In summary, the proposed policy aims to address the issue of private schools operating in residential areas by facilitating their move to purpose-built campuses. The CDA will offer plots on a rental lease basis for 20 to 25 years, and monthly rent will be charged. The proposed policy would generate approximately Rs1 billion annually for the CDA.