The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has launched a strict enforcement campaign against guest houses operating in residential areas of Islamabad, creating concern among business owners and workers connected to the hospitality sector.
The latest move by the CDA includes large warning billboards placed at several important locations across the capital. The notices instruct guest houses operating in residential sectors under the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) to shut down and vacate their premises within seven days.
The warning further advises the public to avoid conducting any business with such guest houses. According to the notices, strict legal action may be taken against establishments that fail to comply with the instructions.
Officials said enforcement measures could include sealing buildings, cancelling allotments, and initiating criminal proceedings against violators. The notices also stated that no further warning would be issued before action begins.
The campaign is being supervised by the Director General of the Building and Housing Control Wing of the CDA. Authorities described the operation as part of efforts to ensure regulatory compliance and proper urban management within residential areas.
However, representatives of the guest house industry strongly criticized the move. Stakeholders from nearly 700 guest houses operating in Islamabad warned that thousands of people could lose their jobs if the crackdown continues.
According to industry representatives, more than 10,000 individuals are directly or indirectly connected to the guest house business. They argued that sudden closures could seriously affect tourism, small businesses, and employment opportunities in the city.
Guest house owners also raised concerns regarding legal clarity. Several operators claimed they had already obtained stay orders from the High Court and even the Supreme Court. They questioned how the CDA would proceed with enforcement while legal protections remain in place.
Many business owners said the sector has played an important role in accommodating visitors during major national and international events in Islamabad. They argued that the city already faces accommodation shortages during busy periods.
The issue also attracted political and media attention. Senior journalist Azaz Syed and other commentators highlighted what they described as a contradiction in government policy.
Critics pointed out that officials, including Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, recently encouraged investment in the hospitality sector and acknowledged accommodation shortages in Islamabad. At the same time, regulatory authorities are now taking action against small guest houses operating in residential neighborhoods.
Industry representatives are now demanding dialogue, transparency, and a balanced policy approach. They urged authorities to consider the economic impact before taking strict enforcement measures against the hospitality sector.
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The situation continues to develop as business owners await further clarification regarding the future of guest houses operating in residential areas of the capital.
