New framework sets strategic direction for affordable housing, urban development and climate-resilient construction after 25 years.
ISLAMABAD: The Federal Cabinet has approved the National Housing Policy 2026, marking a major milestone for Pakistan’s housing and urban development sectors and providing the country with an updated national framework nearly 25 years after the previous policy was approved in 2001.
The approval aims to address longstanding challenges in housing and urban development through a coordinated, inclusive and sustainable policy framework. The new policy seeks to promote adequate, affordable and sustainable housing for all, while improving access to housing opportunities, basic amenities and supporting infrastructure.
The National Housing Policy 2026 sets out nine strategic themes covering major areas of the housing and urban development sector. These include land for housing, housing finance, construction services, technology and building materials, development of intermediate and secondary towns, slums and Katchi Abadis, affordable housing, low-income and rural housing, and capacity building and knowledge sharing.
The policy provides a comprehensive framework addressing land availability, housing finance, construction technologies, balanced urban development and institutional reforms. It also focuses on low-cost housing and rural settlements while incorporating climate-resilient and environmentally sustainable approaches to housing development.
Federal Minister for Housing and Works Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada and the Secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Works congratulated the Policy & Planning Wing for its efforts in preparing the policy document.
They noted that extensive consultations were undertaken during the formulation process to incorporate the views and requirements of major stakeholders.
The Federal Minister described the cabinet’s approval as a historic achievement for the Ministry of Housing and Works, particularly as Pakistan had remained without an updated national housing policy for almost a quarter of a century.
He said the policy would provide clear strategic direction for tackling the country’s housing deficit while addressing emerging challenges associated with rapid urbanisation and urban development.
The policy is also intended to establish a coordinated approach to housing development by improving institutional capacity, expanding financing opportunities and promoting modern construction practices.
The government said the framework would help create a more sustainable and inclusive housing sector while supporting improved urban planning and development across the country.
The draft National Housing Policy 2026 has been made available for public information and reference on the official website of the Ministry of Housing and Works.