Islamabad: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has given the green light to a sweeping upgrade of Islamabad’s emergency services, promising faster response times, modern equipment, and stronger coordination across the capital.
The decision came during the 15th CDA Board meeting held on Wednesday under the chairmanship of Muhammad Ali Randhawa. Among the key measures approved is the establishment of 12 new rescue stations strategically placed throughout the city. To further boost rapid intervention, a motorbike rescue fleet of 50 bikes will soon hit the roads, ensuring first responders can reach critical incidents without delay.
To strengthen the system from within, the Board endorsed a fresh recruitment drive and professional training programs for rescue staff. In addition, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) will be consulted to vet and standardize the new equipment being acquired.
A major highlight of the plan is the creation of a state-of-the-art Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to enhance monitoring, communication, and inter-agency coordination. The CDA also approved procurement of modern rescue vehicles, specialized water rescue vans, and advanced gear to better handle complex emergencies.
Institutional reforms are also underway, with the Board approving the finalization of the Capital Emergency Service Regulations, ensuring that the upgraded framework becomes a permanent part of the city’s governance. Chairman Randhawa stressed that “all available resources must be utilized to equip emergency services with cutting-edge facilities to safeguard citizens more effectively.”
Beyond emergency management, the meeting cleared several strategic initiatives. These include appointing a consultant to help CDA secure carbon credits for its conservation projects—covering afforestation, pollution control, and forest preservation—bringing the authority’s environmental efforts in line with global conventions.
The Board also decided to engage consultants for the design and planning of Phase I of the Jinnah Medical Complex, while simultaneously allocating land for a new teaching hospital in Islamabad, further expanding the city’s healthcare infrastructure.