ISLAMABAD: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has announced plans to establish a major museum complex in Islamabad’s Malpur area, featuring dedicated museums for Pakistan’s national heritage, history, armed forces, Islamic culture and other fields.
Speaking to journalists during a visit to Malpur on Wednesday, October 21, Naqvi said the proposed cultural complex would be developed on approximately 150 acres of government land and would house eight museums designed to international standards.
The project aims to preserve and showcase Pakistan’s historical heritage, Islamic traditions, cultural identity and the contributions of its armed forces while promoting educational and cultural activities in the federal capital.
According to the minister, the proposed facilities will include a National Heritage Museum, History Museum, Armed Forces Museum and Islamic Museum, alongside museums representing other fields.
Naqvi said the government had identified approximately 150 acres of land adjoining an area where 108 kanals of government property had been marked in connection with construction and land-use matters.
The interior minister inspected the proposed project site and reviewed the status of government land during his visit.
The Minister of State for Interior, Islamabad Deputy Commissioner, Capital Development Authority (CDA) Chairman and other senior officials accompanied him.
Action against illegal occupation of government land
During his visit, Naqvi also announced strict action against illegal occupation and encroachment on government property in Islamabad.
He said individuals and groups occupying valuable public land and government apartments for decades would not be granted concessions.
The minister also criticised the role of CDA officials who had allegedly facilitated illegal occupation of government property in the past.
He said responsibility for encroachments did not rest solely with illegal occupants, adding that officials who enabled such activities would also face action.
According to Naqvi, both illegal occupants and officials found responsible for facilitating encroachments would be dealt with without discrimination.
Legal action against unauthorised housing societies
The interior minister further claimed that approximately 150 housing societies in Islamabad, including Ghouri Town, were operating illegally.
He said the Islamabad administration and CDA were actively pursuing legal action against unauthorised housing developments.
Naqvi maintained that enforcement measures would continue against illegal occupation of public property and housing schemes operating in violation of applicable regulations.
The proposed museum complex forms part of the government’s plans to develop cultural and historical facilities in the capital, although the minister did not announce a construction timeline or estimated project cost.