Islamabad (Special Report) — Hundreds of vulnerable families, many from Pakistan’s Christian community, are facing imminent displacement after authorities ordered residents of the H-9 katchi abadi in Islamabad to vacate their homes by 13 March. The move has sparked deep concern among human rights advocates, who warn of a looming humanitarian crisis.
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has announced plans to demolish homes built along drainage channels, citing flood risk reduction ahead of the monsoon season. However, residents and community representatives argue that this justification is deeply flawed and lacks transparency. Many of the affected families have lived in these settlements for decades, with their homes officially recognized by state institutions such as NADRA and the Election Commission of Pakistan.
For Christian families in particular—many of whom rely on daily wage labour, sanitation work, and domestic services—the threat of eviction is devastating. Without any alternative housing or rehabilitation plan in place, thousands risk being left homeless overnight, including women, children, and the elderly.
“This is not just an eviction—it is the destruction of entire communities,” said one local community representative. “These families have contributed to building this city, yet now they are being pushed out without dignity or protection.”
The situation has revived painful memories of the 2015 demolition of Islamabad’s I-11 katchi abadi, where over 20,000 people were left homeless following a large-scale operation. Activists fear a similar outcome if urgent action is not taken.
Residents have begun organizing protests, demanding that authorities immediately halt the evictions and engage in meaningful dialogue. Experts emphasize that disaster risk management should focus on long-term planning and community participation—not forced displacement.
Human rights groups are now calling on the government to suspend the eviction orders, ensure the protection of minority communities, and develop a fair and inclusive housing policy that upholds the dignity and rights of all citizens.
