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CDA Unveils Plan to Transform Islamabad into a Vibrant Cultural and Tourism Hub

ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has launched a new initiative to enhance Islamabad’s status as a cultural and tourism capital. Announced on February 10, the plan aims to boost the city’s cultural appeal and attract both local and international tourists.

The CDA’s strategy includes the development of spaces dedicated to art, heritage, and cultural events, designed to foster a vibrant cultural scene. The initiative will involve the creation of cultural centers, public art spaces, and tourism-focused facilities, all of which will contribute to the city’s identity as a prominent cultural hub.

Additionally, the CDA plans to allocate land for the construction of museums, galleries, and cultural landmarks, which will showcase Pakistan’s rich history and diverse cultural heritage. These new facilities are expected to enhance the city’s tourism infrastructure, drawing more visitors to Islamabad.

The CDA is committed to preserving the city’s natural beauty as a “garden city,” ensuring that the new cultural developments align with the city’s environmental and architectural character. This approach aims to balance urban growth with sustainable design, offering a blend of modern amenities and green spaces.

This initiative is part of the CDA’s broader goal to boost the city’s visibility on the global tourism map, stimulate economic growth through cultural tourism, and create a more engaging environment for both residents and visitors. The CDA’s efforts are expected to elevate Islamabad’s reputation as a key cultural and tourism destination in the region.

CategoriesNews Construction Transport Urban Developments & Planning

Traffic Diversion Plan Announced for Park Road Underpass Construction

ISLAMABAD: Authorities have announced a comprehensive traffic management plan in connection with the construction of a new underpass at Margalla Enclave on Park Road in Islamabad. The diversion strategy aims to regulate vehicular movement and minimize congestion during the development phase.

According to the advisory, vehicles traveling from Rawal Dam Chowk toward Taramari will be redirected via NIH Road and will rejoin Park Road through Mohra Noor. Meanwhile, traffic moving from Taramari toward Rawal Dam Chowk will be diverted near Chai Khana, passing through the CDA Nursery area and two temporary access roads before merging back onto Park Road.

Motorists have been advised to consider alternative routes, including Lehtrar Road, Khanna Pul, and the Islamabad Expressway, to avoid delays near the construction site. Officials have cautioned that the area is likely to experience increased traffic pressure, particularly during peak hours, and commuters are encouraged to allow an additional 20 to 30 minutes for travel.

Islamabad Police personnel will remain deployed along affected stretches to assist drivers and ensure the orderly movement of vehicles. The traffic management measures will remain in place for the duration of the construction work.

The underpass project forms part of ongoing infrastructure development efforts aimed at improving traffic flow along Park Road, a key corridor connecting residential and commercial areas of the capital. Authorities have urged the public to cooperate with traffic officials and adhere to the designated diversion routes to maintain smooth traffic operations during the construction period.

CategoriesConstruction News Urban Developments & Planning

ECNEC Clears Rs240 Billion Package for Health, Transport, Energy and Skills Projects

ISLAMABAD: The Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) has given the green light to four public sector development projects with a total estimated cost exceeding Rs240 billion. The approvals were granted during a meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, according to an official release.

One of the key initiatives involves expanding cardiac care facilities at a major medical institute in Rawalpindi, aimed at strengthening specialised healthcare services and increasing treatment capacity.

The committee also approved a nationwide youth-focused skills programme intended to enhance vocational and technical training opportunities. The initiative is designed to equip young people with market-relevant skills to improve employability.

In the transport sector, ECNEC endorsed the development of a new bus rapid transit corridor in Karachi. The project is expected to support urban mobility by providing an organised public transport system along a key route in the city.

Additionally, a hydropower project with a planned generation capacity of 34.5 megawatts in Gilgit-Baltistan received approval. The scheme is expected to contribute to regional electricity supply and support local infrastructure development.

The meeting was attended by federal and provincial officials, including representatives from finance, planning, water resources, defence, and technical training institutions. The approved projects span multiple sectors, reflecting ongoing efforts to address infrastructure, energy, healthcare, and workforce development needs through public investment.

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CategoriesNews Construction Developments Economy Investment Urban Developments & Planning

Balochistan Government Establishing Business Facilitation Centre in Gwadar

GWADAR: The Balochistan government is in the process of setting up a Business Facilitation Centre (BFC) in Gwadar to provide administrative and regulatory services to the business community. The facility is expected to become operational in the near future.

The centre will operate as a one-window platform, bringing together representatives from various government departments to process applications and approvals required for business activities. Services to be offered include the issuance of no-objection certificates (NOCs), licenses, permits, and other regulatory clearances needed to initiate or expand commercial operations.

A digital coordination system is being introduced to connect relevant departments and support the processing of applications. Business Facilitation Officers will be stationed at the centre to assist applicants and manage documentation and procedural requirements.

The initiative is part of ongoing administrative measures aimed at improving service delivery for investors and businesses operating in Gwadar. The centre is intended to centralise procedures that are currently handled by multiple offices.

The decision to establish the facility was discussed during meetings between representatives of the business community and provincial authorities responsible for investment and trade. The Business Facilitation Centre will function as a dedicated point of contact for investors seeking regulatory approvals related to business operations in Gwadar.

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CategoriesNews Developments Urban Developments & Planning

Rawalpindi Begins Major Beautification of Raja Bazaar and Commercial Market

RAWALPINDI: The Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation (RMC) is nearing completion of a large-scale urban upgrade in the historic Raja Bazaar and the city’s busy Commercial Avenue Market, with most underground utility work already finished and beautification efforts now underway.

Municipal officials report that around 80 percent of underground cabling has been completed along the key commercial stretch of Raja Bazaar, while nearly 90 percent of similar work has been finalised in Commercial Avenue Market. The project, valued at Rs875 million, is scheduled for completion by May 30, with the transformed areas expected to reopen to the public in June.

The next phase in Raja Bazaar includes restoring old building façades, installing uniform signboards, constructing tuff-tiled pedestrian walkways, upgrading pavements, and adding public washrooms and seating areas. Decorative lighting, flower pots, and greenery will also be introduced to improve the visual appeal. Once finished, the market will operate as a pedestrian-friendly walking street.

In Commercial Avenue Market, beautification has begun following the relocation of utilities. Similar improvements are planned to enhance infrastructure and create a more organised shopping environment.

Officials say the initiative, launched under Punjab’s broader urban improvement drive, aims to boost cleanliness, modernise infrastructure, and create a healthier and more attractive setting for residents and visitors. Authorities believe the revamped markets will encourage increased foot traffic and commercial activity, positioning both locations as vibrant, accessible urban destinations.

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CategoriesNews Construction Developments Urban Developments & Planning

KP Approves Comprehensive Revitalisation Blueprint for Peshawar

PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has granted initial approval to a wide-ranging urban revitalisation plan aimed at reshaping Peshawar into a more modern, livable, and well-connected city. The decision was made during a high-level review meeting chaired by the provincial chief minister, who directed departments to prioritise projects that are both technically sound and practically achievable.

The proposed plan spans multiple sectors and will be executed through coordinated efforts of key provincial departments and development authorities. A major focus will be on upgrading dozens of important city roads to improve traffic flow and accessibility. Authorities also intend to install underground electricity cabling along selected corridors to enhance safety and urban aesthetics.

To ease congestion, several underpasses are proposed at high-traffic intersections, alongside a new link road connecting the Hayatabad Industrial Estate with major surrounding routes. Urban beautification and recreation also form a central component of the initiative, with plans for theme parks, a modern children’s park, and new public landmarks designed to enhance community spaces.

Heritage preservation is included through proposed conservation work in the historic Walled City, while technical studies are being planned to guide improvements in public transportation. Infrastructure upgrades will extend to water supply, sanitation, irrigation channels, street lighting, and waste management systems. New municipal facilities, including slaughterhouses and sewerage treatment infrastructure, are also part of the blueprint.

The chief minister emphasised the timely completion of feasibility studies and planning documentation to prevent delays and ensure that development delivers visible improvements to residents. The revitalisation program is expected to significantly enhance Peshawar’s infrastructure, environmental conditions, and overall quality of urban life.

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CategoriesNews Construction Developments Urban Developments & Planning

CDA Initiates Construction of New Underpass on Park Road, Islamabad

ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has begun work on a new underpass at Margalla Enclave along Park Road in Islamabad, marking another step in its ongoing efforts to improve urban traffic infrastructure. The project is designed to ease congestion on one of the city’s busiest routes and enhance overall traffic movement for daily commuters.

To facilitate construction, the Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) has implemented a comprehensive traffic diversion plan. Vehicles travelling from Rawal Dam Chowk toward Tramri will be redirected via NIH Road and Mohra Noor before rejoining Park Road beyond the construction zone. For traffic heading from Tramri toward Rawal Dam Chowk, a diversion has been established near Chai Khana, routing vehicles through the CDA Nursery area and back onto Park Road via temporary feeder roads.

Commuters are advised to use alternative routes such as Lehtrar Road, Khanna Pul, and the Islamabad Expressway where possible to avoid delays. Authorities have warned that the construction work is expected to cause significant traffic pressure, particularly during peak hours, and have recommended allowing an additional 20–30 minutes for travel.

Traffic police personnel will be stationed throughout the affected areas to assist motorists and manage orderly flow. Real-time updates and guidance are being provided to help drivers navigate the altered traffic patterns.

The new underpass project is part of the CDA’s broader strategy to modernise Islamabad’s road network and improve urban mobility. Once completed, it is expected to reduce congestion, shorten travel times, and support the city’s growing transportation needs, contributing to smoother and more efficient commuting for residents and visitors alike.

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CategoriesNews Developments Transport Urban Developments & Planning

Pakistan–Kazakhstan $7bn Rail MoU Expected in Feb

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Kazakhstan have moved a step closer toward launching a major regional railway connectivity initiative, following a high-level consultation held at the Ministry of Railways in Islamabad between Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi and Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Yerzhan Kistafin.

The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in the railway sector and advancing Pakistan’s broader regional connectivity agenda. Both sides discussed strategic projects aimed at linking Pakistan with Central Asia through rail corridors, emphasizing the potential economic impact and long-term trade benefits for the region.

Officials stated that the proposed Pakistan–Kazakhstan Rail Connectivity Project has been identified as a strategically significant initiative under the Prime Minister’s Regional Connectivity Vision. Minister Abbasi described the project as a historic development for Pakistan’s railway sector, noting that it could open new avenues for trade expansion and strengthen regional linkages through enhanced transport integration.

Meanwhile, momentum for the agreement is expected to accelerate in the coming weeks, as Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Kemeluly Tokayev is scheduled to visit Pakistan on February 3, 2026. The visit is expected to culminate in the formal signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, further solidifying railway cooperation between the two countries and advancing regional integration goals.

According to the discussions, a preliminary railway network linking Karachi Port to Kazakhstan has already been prepared. The network is intended to strengthen trade routes and improve Pakistan’s access to Central Asian markets. 

The plan also envisions extending the railway linkage through Chaman, connecting Afghanistan, Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan, which could further consolidate Pakistan’s role as a key transit hub for regional commerce.

The initiative, estimated to cost approximately USD 7 billion, is expected to be completed within three years, placing it among the largest railway connectivity projects currently under consideration in the region. Stakeholders believe the project could enhance freight movement, lower transportation costs and contribute to broader economic development.

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Fire Safety Audit
CategoriesDevelopments News Urban Developments & Planning

Punjab CM Orders Fire Safety Audit After Tragic Gul Plaza Blaze in Karachi

LAHORE: In response to the tragic fire that claimed 26 lives at Karachi’s Gul Plaza, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed a province-wide audit of fire safety systems in both public and private buildings. The audit is part of a broader initiative to ensure public safety and prevent similar disasters.

The Chief Minister expressed her grief over the incident and extended condolences to the victims’ families. She urged the immediate implementation of safety measures, stating that fire safety systems in all buildings must be regularly inspected and upgraded where necessary.

As part of her ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure, CM Maryam Nawaz also announced a series of urban development initiatives. These include fully reconstructing roads after excavation for sewerage and drainage projects and ensuring that pits dug during development work are properly covered and fenced to avoid accidents.

The Chief Minister further emphasized the importance of transparency in ongoing development projects. Under the Punjab Development Plan (PDP), she highlighted that Phase-I projects had saved the government Rs 2.8 billion through effective transparency measures.

CM Nawaz also outlined plans for major sewerage, drainage, and water storage projects across various districts, including Sargodha, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Gujrat, as well as for developing green spaces and utility corridors in urban areas.

Punjab Emergency Services Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique also called for the complete enforcement of the Building Safety Regulations 2022, following a survey of 2,214 high-rise buildings in the province. He revealed plans to extend firefighting services to 39 additional tehsils, with an investment of Rs 2 billion. Rescue 1122 has already responded to over 280,000 fire emergencies, saving an estimated Rs 768 billion in potential damages.

These measures reflect the Punjab government’s commitment to improving public safety and urban infrastructure across the province.

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CategoriesNews Construction Developments Urban Developments & Planning

Rawalpindi Ring Road Project & Transport Terminals Relocation: A Comprehensive Development Plan

In a major move to alleviate traffic congestion and improve infrastructure, the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) is making significant progress on the Rawalpindi Ring Road Project and the relocation of 44 key transport terminals. The dual initiatives are set to reshape the city’s traffic management, boost regional connectivity, and transform Rawalpindi’s transport landscape.

Rawalpindi Ring Road: Progress and Impacts

construction site of ring road Rawalpindi

The Rawalpindi Ring Road, a crucial part of the city’s transportation overhaul, is a 38.3-kilometre, six-lane highway designed to connect key zones in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. The project aims to reduce congestion and improve access to regional economic zones.

  • Current Progress: As of the latest reports, the project is 70% complete, with structural work, road surfacing, embankments, and drainage systems progressing steadily. Key sections, including the Banth to Thallian Interchange, are already under construction.
  • Revised Timeline: The Rawalpindi Ring Road, initially slated for completion by December 2025, now has a new deadline of March 2026. The project’s total cost has been revised upwards to Rs. 50 billion due to the redesigning of the Thallian Interchange, a critical junction connecting the Ring Road to the M-2 Motorway.
  • Expected Benefits: The Ring Road will significantly ease traffic congestion in Rawalpindi, improve access to major highways, and facilitate smoother connectivity to Islamabad. Once completed, it will reduce traffic volume on city roads, benefiting both commercial and commuter traffic.
  • Project Management: The construction is being carried out by Frontier Works Organisation (FWO) under the oversight of the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA).

Relocation of Transport Terminals: Strategic Planning for Traffic Management

Pirwadhai Bus Stand

In line with the vision to streamline Rawalpindi’s transport system, the Punjab government has approved the relocation of major transport terminals to areas near the Rawalpindi Ring Road. This move aims to reduce traffic congestion within the city, particularly from heavy transport vehicles.

  • Pirwadhai Bus Stand: The prominent Pirwadhai General Bus Stand, along with other terminals, will be shifted to a more centralised location along the Ring Road. This relocation will accommodate inter-district buses and intra-city transport, improving traffic management and passenger operations.
  • New Terminal Locations: Other transport terminals, including those at Faizabad and Chungi No. 26, will also be closed, with all long-distance and goods transport hubs moved to strategic locations along the Ring Road.
  • Key Routes:
    • Transport coming from Peshawar will now operate from a new terminal near Islamabad Airport.
    • Vehicles from Azad Kashmir via Murree will stop at Bharakahu, while those coming from other districts will enter through Rawat.
  • Traffic and Fare Adjustments: The relocation will impact local travel. Fares for intra-city buses will range from Rs. 20 to Rs. 50, while passengers travelling to the newly relocated terminals may experience changes in travel time.
  • Policy Changes: To complement the relocation, the Punjab government will enforce a ban on heavy transport vehicles entering the city’s core. Any violating vehicles will face impoundment. Public transport buses and wagons will ferry passengers from the Ring Road terminals into the city centre, offering seamless connectivity.

Long-Term Impact: Urban Mobility and Economic Growth

ring road aerial view

Both the Rawalpindi Ring Road Project and the relocation of transport terminals are part of a comprehensive urban development strategy. By reducing congestion and improving connectivity, these initiatives are expected to enhance the city’s overall mobility, improve air quality, and stimulate local economic growth.

  • Environmental and Aesthetic Benefits: The Ring Road project incorporates green initiatives, including the creation of green belts, better drainage systems, and improved traffic safety measures. These will contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable urban environment.
  • Public Response: While many residents welcome the plan for its long-term traffic management benefits, some have expressed concerns about longer travel distances and the costs of relocating terminals. However, the shift is being framed as a necessary step to manage Rawalpindi’s increasing population and transport demands.

A Vision for a Modern Rawalpindi

With Rs. 50 billion invested in the Rawalpindi Ring Road Project and additional resources allocated for terminal relocations, the city is witnessing one of its most significant infrastructural transformations. 

The development of this vital infrastructure will not only ease traffic congestion but will also position Rawalpindi as a model for modern urban mobility in Pakistan.

As the project progresses towards its 2026 completion, Rawalpindi’s residents and visitors can look forward to enhanced connectivity, reduced travel times, and a cleaner, more efficient transport system.

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