A delegation from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) met with Federal Minister for Housing and Works, Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada, on Thursday to discuss areas of mutual cooperation, particularly in relation to the development of a Land Data Bank and initiatives in the housing sector.
The primary focus of the meeting was the establishment of a Land Data Bank, a project the Ministry of Housing and Works is working to develop. The system will provide comprehensive information on federal assets, with a special emphasis on prime land holdings across the country. The initiative aims to improve transparency, optimize resource utilization, and attract investment through modern data-driven systems.
Minister Pirzada welcomed the ADB delegation, thanking them for their ongoing support in advancing the housing and real estate sector in Pakistan. He emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring efficient resource management and transparency.
Secretary of Housing, Hamed Yaqoob Sheikh, explained that the purpose of the Land Data Bank is to create accurate, accessible data on federal government assets. The system, which will feature GIS-based tools, is expected to help address the issue of land encroachment, currently depriving the government of potential benefits. The data bank will also aid in evaluating commercial value, attracting private investment, and ensuring optimal land use.
Sheikh further suggested that the ADB could serve as a technical partner and guarantor, particularly for projects involving the private sector. He outlined several areas for collaboration, including subsidy mechanisms in the housing sector, mortgage facilities, green housing initiatives, urban regeneration, and the development of low-cost housing models. The discussion also touched on construction industry transitions and the creation of data banks for urban planning and monitoring.
The ADB delegation presented their observations, emphasizing the need for reforms in the housing subsidy framework. They also proposed community-based models for social urban infrastructure, drawing inspiration from the Singapore model to ensure greater welfare and public participation.
The meeting concluded with both sides expressing their commitment to strengthening cooperation for sustainable housing development, improving asset management, and enhancing urban infrastructure in Pakistan.
