- Inn meant for the accommodation of capital’s visitors, students and the poor now allegedly occupied by some influential government officers
Owing to the negligence of the Capital Development Authority (CDA), Saraye Aam, a cheap inn for visitors of the city has been closed, creating problems for the poor.
Located in Sector G-7/3-1 the government run free inn was made for students, travellers and the poor. The facility is now allegedly occupied by some influential officers.
Ayub Nasir, a resident living next to the inn, while talking to Pakistan Today said that the inn is closed from the last three and half years. “It was the only free inn in Islamabad made by CDA to facilitate passengers. It was reopened and Rs 70 was charged for one day of stay but was again closed forcing the poor to spend nights in public parks,” he added. He also said that it was initially captured by a land mafia but is now being used by CDA officials for private purposes.
A guard at Saraye Aam said that he did not know why the inn was shut down and admitted that CDA officials use the facility for their guests.
The building seems to be in a deplorable condition with broken windows, paint peeling off the walls and no cleanliness.
However, Director General (Admin) Dr Naeem Rauf confirmed the closure of the inn and said that it will be reopened within a month after renovation. “It will not be totally free and a minor amount will be charged from the visitors,’ he said.
