LAHORE: Opposition member of the Punjab Assembly Aftab Ahmad Khan has challenged the provincial government’s Green Property Certificate system, alleging that poor implementation has disrupted property transactions and created difficulties for citizens across Punjab.
The opposition lawmaker submitted an adjournment motion in the Punjab Assembly, highlighting what he described as serious administrative and technical problems with the newly introduced property transaction system.
According to the motion, the Green Property Certificate system was implemented across Punjab simultaneously without adequate preparation, complete computerised land records or sufficient training for officials responsible for processing property transactions.
Aftab Ahmad Khan claimed that the system has created particular difficulties for ordinary citizens and overseas Pakistanis who want to buy or sell property in Punjab.
He said property transactions in several areas have slowed down or effectively come to a halt because of problems associated with the new procedure. People who need to sell properties urgently could face financial losses when transactions are delayed, according to the opposition member.
🏠 Land Record and Staff Training Concerns
The motion also highlighted alleged discrepancies in computerised land records and inadequate training of staff.
Aftab Ahmad Khan warned that errors in land records, combined with discretionary powers available to officials, could create opportunities for corruption and contribute to disputes over property ownership.
Another major concern is the 90-day validity period of the Green Property Certificate. The opposition member argued that the limited validity period could create additional difficulties when transactions are delayed because of administrative or technical problems.
The opposition also criticised what it described as a complicated “seven-window operation”, arguing that the new system has not achieved the intended goal of simplifying property transactions.
Instead of providing citizens with a one-window solution, the process allegedly requires applicants to navigate multiple offices and stages.
The problem could be particularly complicated for properties owned by multiple individuals, as co-owners may face additional challenges in completing transactions within the certificate’s validity period.
💻 Calls for Reforms
The opposition has called for the immediate correction and updating of land records and better training for officials responsible for implementing the system.
It has also proposed establishing a user-friendly online property portal for overseas Pakistanis, allowing them to complete property-related procedures without repeatedly visiting government offices in Pakistan.
An effective grievance redressal mechanism has also been demanded so citizens can report problems and receive timely solutions.
The opposition member said widespread concern and frustration are emerging among citizens because of the current implementation of the Green Property Certificate system.
The issue is now likely to receive further attention in the Punjab Assembly as lawmakers debate whether changes are needed to make property transactions faster, more transparent and accessible.
