The federal government has reached a principled decision to offer compensation to the apartment owners of One Constitution Avenue in Islamabad. Under this new plan, buyers will be reimbursed based on the original purchase prices they initially paid for their units. While the strategy is largely set, a formal announcement is expected once Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif grants his final approval.
To manage the legal and administrative complexities of this high-profile lease dispute, a specialized committee has been formed. Led by Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, the group includes Talal Chaudhry and various federal secretaries. Their primary mission is to review individual cases, listen to the grievances of affected owners, and propose a balanced solution that aligns with court orders. This committee is on a tight schedule, with a deadline to submit its comprehensive report by May 8.
In a move to provide immediate relief, the government has instructed the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and local police to halt all actions against the residents until a final resolution is reached. This pause comes shortly after the CDA had issued eviction notices following orders from the Islamabad High Court.
The controversy dates back to 2005 when the land was originally intended for a five-star hotel. However, the developer shifted focus to constructing 263 residential apartments, leading to significant legal defaults and the eventual cancellation of the lease in 2023. Despite various public warnings about the project’s status, many individuals still invested in the property. Currently, only 69 units are occupied, with many being used as short-term rentals rather than permanent homes. By moving toward compensation, the government aims to finally resolve this long-standing deadlock and protect the financial interests of those caught in the middle.
