By Maryam Noureen Janjua
Pakistan’s housing and development dilemma is a multifaceted issue driven by rapid urbanization, population growth, and economic challenges. Major cities face acute housing shortages, leading to the proliferation of informal settlements. The demand for affordable housing far exceeds supply, exacerbated by high land costs, regulatory hurdles, and limited access to housing finance. Rural areas struggle with inadequate infrastructure and services, impeding balanced regional development. The construction sector, although a potential economic driver, is hindered by bureaucratic inefficiencies and lack of investment.
Pakistan faces a severe housing crisis, with an estimated shortage of over 10 million housing units. To bridge this gap, the country needs to construct approximately 700,000 to 1 million homes annually over the next five years. This amounts to a total of 3.5 to 5 million new homes required by 2029 to address the current deficit and accommodate future demand. Government initiatives, such as the Naya Pakistan Housing Scheme, aim to address these issues, but implementation has been slow and often marred by corruption. Sustainable urban planning, regulatory reforms, and innovative financing mechanisms are crucial for resolving Pakistan’s housing crisis and fostering equitable development.
Pakistan’s urban areas, in particular, are under immense pressure due to rapid population growth and urbanization. Around 40% of Pakistan’s urban population resides in informal settlements, often lacking basic amenities. The rural housing situation is also dire, with many homes being structurally unsound and inadequate. Additionally, approximately 20 million people in Pakistan are homeless or live in substandard housing conditions. Addressing this issue necessitates comprehensive policies, public-private partnerships, and significant investment in affordable housing projects to ensure safe and decent living conditions for all citizens. Despite the fact, that Punjab province is relatively developed than other federating units, the plight of housing needs an immediate attention.
Punjab faces critical housing issues due to rapid urbanization, population growth, and economic disparities. Major cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, and Rawalpindi experience severe housing shortages, with a significant portion of the population living in overcrowded and informal settlements. Rural areas struggle with inadequate housing infrastructure and services, leading to disparities in living conditions. To address these challenges, the Punjab government has launched several initiatives. Punjab Housing and Town Planning Agency (PHATA) is working on various housing schemes to increase the housing supply. Efforts to streamline regulatory processes, promote public-private partnerships, and implement land reforms are also underway. The Apna Ghar initiative, spearheaded by Maryam Nawaz Sharif in Punjab, is a significant step toward addressing the housing needs of the middle and lower-middle classes. This initiative aims to provide affordable, quality housing through various schemes and developments across the province. By targeting this demographic, the program seeks to alleviate the housing crisis exacerbated by rapid urbanization and population growth.
Apna Ghar focuses on constructing well-planned residential units equipped with essential amenities, ensuring a decent standard of living. The initiative includes subsidized housing finance options and streamlined processes for acquiring homes, making it accessible to those with limited financial resources. Moreover, the program promotes public-private partnerships to leverage expertise and resources for efficient project execution. By increasing the supply of affordable housing and improving living conditions, Apna Ghar addresses the growing demand for homes among the middle and lower-middle classes, contributing to socio-economic stability and equitable development in Punjab.
The housing and development, in Pakistan has never been free from environmental and climate issues. Rapid urbanization and population growth have led to the unchecked expansion of cities, resulting in deforestation, loss of green spaces, and increased air pollution. The construction industry, a major driver of development, often relies on environmentally harmful practices and materials, exacerbating the problem. Urban sprawl and inadequate waste management systems contribute to the degradation of natural habitats and water bodies. These conditions reduce visibility, disrupt daily life, and pose significant health risks, particularly respiratory issues.
To mitigate these impacts, sustainable development practices are essential. New housing projects in Punjab should integrate civic sense and modern development with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. Urban planning must prioritize green spaces, efficient waste management systems, and sustainable construction practices. Projects should incorporate eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies, such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems, to minimize environmental impact. Promoting civic sense involves creating inclusive communities with accessible public amenities like parks, community centers, and recreational facilities. Encouraging public participation in the planning process fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility among residents. Infrastructure should support walkability and public transportation to reduce traffic congestion and pollution.
Maryam Noureen Janjua is Undergrad student of Political Science in Women University Rawalpindi. She can be reached at [email protected]
