EPA, Suparco brief CDA on master plan

ISLAMABAD: Federal commission for review of master plan has made major progress in its efforts for formulation of master plan for Islamabad.

Environment Protection Agency (EPA) Director General presented the environmental atlas for Islamabad which showed surprisingly that as built up areas have increased so has there been some increase in green covers from 1990-2016. Suparco also made a briefing in this meeting.

The commission headed by Capital Development Authority (CDA) chairman reviewed progress of three sub-committees formed for various tasks. In this context, the preliminary spade work of the commission is shaping up. The sub-committee formulated around eight major studies with 23 sub studies required from the consultants. These studies also set the parameters for the consultants.

The other major achievement has been finalization of ToRs for engagement of consultant who once engaged will present his first preliminary report within two months. The final report will be based on findings and observations made in the preliminary report and will be submitted subsequently. The ToRs shall be shared with the ministry of interior as well as planning commission and adhere to PPRA rules to ensure transparency.

It was decided that Suparco will assist CDA in monitoring urban sprawl, encroachment and built-up-property. In this regard, draft MoU is being made and Suparco will present it for finalization.

It was decided that CDA will develop a portal, linked with CDA website to update the citizens regarding review of master plan and seeking their proposals. Moreover, public hearing will be held within two weeks.