Rawalpindi popularly referred to as the twin city of Islamabad, is the fourth largest city of Pakistan, with regards to population. The city was a garrison town during the British Raj. It still retains its identity of a major military area as the headquarters of Pakistan Army is located here.
Land in Rawalpindi is in high demand, mostly owing to the fact that the cost of living in Islamabad is relatively higher and investors can find comparatively affordable options here. Talking about real estate opportunities in this city, if you’re looking for residential plots, then you must explore the Punjab Government Servant Housing Foundation (PGSHF).
The Government of Punjab (GoP) launched PGSHF in ten cities of the province, including Rawalpindi in 2004. It is located on Adyala Road. This is a large scheme that covers an area of approx. 3,156 kanal. The project offers plots to retired and on-duty officers, as a reward for their services to the country. The recipients only have to pay the construction cost.
The society offers residential plots ranging from 5 marla to 1 kanal. These are allocated as per the grades of government servants. Those designated on grades BS 1 - BS 7 would be given 5 marla plots while 7 marla of land will be allotted to the grades BS 8 - BS 15 officers. Similarly, BS 16 - BS 18 graders would be granted a 10 marla plot whereas senior-most government servants, from grade BS 19 to BS 22, are entitled to a huge 1 kanal plot.
The land is issued to public servants only, however, they are allowed to sell their plot at least one year after taking possession. A 5 marla plot for sale in PGSHF comes in the range of PKR 14 lakh to PKR 25 lakh and investing in a 10 marla plot can cost you around PKR 18 lakh, but the same property can be up to PKR 35 lakh too depending on amenities associated with it. For big families, PGSHF offers 1 kanal plots for sale in the price range of PKR 40 lakh-PKR 80 lakh.
The ideal location of the society provides easy access to nearby schools and colleges such as Army Public School, Beaconhouse School System, and The City School etc. All these schools are at a 15 to 20-minute drive from the area. Fatima Jinnah Women University is also situated nearby. You can get to the closest hospital after 30 minutes of driving. The most recommended medical facilities are Cantt General Hospital, Al-Shifa Trust Eye Hospital and Rawalpindi Institute of Cardiology.
This housing scheme is equipped with electricity, gas, and water connections. However, the supply can be affected in case of a regional or national shortage or emergency. Residents can enjoy their leisure time at the Army Museum and Ayub National Park, located at a little distance. Mosques are yet to be developed in PGSHF Rawalpindi but residents can offer prayers in nearby areas like Askari 7 mosque. Other features include green belts, wide roads, neat and clean atmosphere and availability of soft water.
Shopping malls and commercial areas will be constructed in the area once it is fully developed. However, for now, PGSHF residents can visit City Centre, which is nearly 12 km away, where they can find all sorts of fashion brands in one place. For grocery shopping, they can visit Happy Mart, which is 16 km away. Famous restaurants like Salateen BBQ, Khiva Revolving Restaurant, BBQ Tonight, Roasters Coffee House & Grill and Savour Foods, etc. are roughly a 30-minute drive away from the society.
Since it’s an exclusive community, Punjab Government Servant Housing Foundation is one of the safer locations of Rawalpindi where you can invest your money. The area offers top-notch security and a peaceful environment. If you want to live away from the hustle and bustle of the city, then you might want to consider buying residential property here.
