CDA chief directs swift action on development projects

Islamabad: Capital Development Authority (CDA) has ramped up efforts to enhance Islamabad’s infrastructure, with Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa issuing key directives during a high-level meeting held via Zoom on Saturday.

The meeting, attended by senior CDA officials, NESPAK consultants, and architects, focused on various development and beautification projects across the capital. One of the primary issues discussed was the repair and maintenance of the Islamabad Police Academy. Officials briefed Chairman Randhawa on the ongoing preparation of cost estimates for the project. The chairman instructed that timelines be finalised promptly and daily progress reports submitted.

He also recommended that NESPAK consultants provide technical assistance in the repair work. Another major point of discussion was the beautification of the Pakistan Secretariat buildings. Chairman Randhawa emphasised the need for a cost-effective yet aesthetically appealing design for the building facades. He directed that landscaping and horticultural improvements be made in the surrounding areas and called for a survey, possibly using drones’ to identify a dedicated parking space for the Secretariat.

Additionally, the chairman instructed the DMA Directorate to assess its assets and determine their market value. During the briefing, it was revealed that repair work on graveyards across the city was progressing rapidly. In a significant move, Chairman Randhawa ordered the immediate waiver of all charges for the funeral bus and directed the launch of an electric hearse bus for graveyard services.

To improve the city’s commercial outlook, he also proposed a uniform design for advertisements and signboards outside all commercial centres (markaz) and shops. He stressed the need to hire top architects to create visually appealing signage across the city. The meeting also reviewed the ongoing repair and beautification of major roads in Islamabad. Officials reported that patchwork and kerbstone repairs were already underway.