Punjab Housing and Town Planning Agency (PHATA) – Affordable Housing & Urban Development in Punjab

Punjab Housing and Town Planning Agency (PHATA) is a key governmental institution working under the Housing and Physical Planning Department. Established in 1973, PHATA aims to address the housing needs of low-income groups and facilitate urban development through systematic planning and cost-effective housing solutions. It was formally restructured under the PHATA Ordinance, 2002, and began operating as an autonomous body on April 1, 2004.

Institutional Mandate of Punjab Housing and Town Planning Agency

PHATA is entrusted with several vital roles and responsibilities, all of which contribute to its mission of providing affordable housing and improving urban planning in the province of Punjab. The institutional mandate includes:

• Identification of Land: PHATA identifies state and other lands suitable for the development of low-cost housing schemes for low-income groups.
• Provision of Housing Inputs: PHATA facilitates the provision of essential resources, including land, finance, and building materials, using indigenous and cost-effective approaches.
• Construction of Multi-Storey Flats: PHATA focuses on the construction of affordable multi-storey flats as part of its low-cost housing initiatives.
• Affordable Housing Solutions: PHATA is dedicated to providing affordable housing schemes specifically for low-income families, ensuring access to decent living conditions.
• Land Use Planning and Development: PHATA is responsible for formulating the provincial land use policy and preparing regional development plans, including inter-district spatial planning and master plans. This ensures integrated and coordinated urban development for a systematic and orderly growth of infrastructure.
• Slum Prevention and Resettlement: PHATA works towards preventing the growth of slums and Katchi Abadis. It also devises measures for the resettlement and relocation of residents from such areas to more sustainable environments.
• Guidelines and Long-Term Planning: PHATA prepares guidelines, long-term, and short-term plans to implement low-cost housing schemes and programs across Punjab, addressing the evolving needs of the underprivileged population.

Vision

PHATA envisions a future where every citizen has access to affordable, safe, and secure housing, contributing to the social and economic well-being of the people of Punjab.