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By Special Correspondent
ISLAMABAD: The management of Centaurus Mall has come under scrutiny over allegations of encroachment on public land, including a green belt belonging to the Capital Development Authority (CDA), and converting part of the area into a paid parking facility.
According to local residents and sources, an area of the CDA green belt in front of Centaurus Mall has allegedly been occupied and is being used for vehicle parking.
Visitors are reportedly being charged Rs100 per vehicle for parking on the disputed land, raising questions over whether the mall management has legal authorization to use the public space and collect parking fees.
Residents have also alleged that portions of public roads and surrounding spaces have been occupied or used for the mall’s commercial and parking requirements, causing inconvenience to motorists and the general public.
The allegations have also raised questions about the role of CDA officials, with sources claiming that the alleged encroachments have continued despite previous action by the civic authority.
CDA had reportedly cleared an encroachment from the green belt near Centaurus Mall in the past, but sources claim that the area has again been occupied.
The owner of Centaurus Mall is misusing his position for wrong doing malpractices.He is Coordinator or Adviser to Prime Minister on Tourism, prompting concerns among residents about possible influence and misuse of official position.
Islamabad Residents and visitors have called upon the CDA and the federal government to investigate the alleged occupation of the green belt, determine whether parking fees are being collected legally, and take action if any violation of land-use or municipal regulations is established.
The Centaurus Mall management and CDA should be given an opportunity to respond to the allegations.
