A view of a huge traffic jam clogs the Islamabad highway, with seemingly endless queues of cars, buses and motorcycles stretching as far as the eye can see. PHOTO: APP
ISLAMABAD:
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has announced an ambitious plan to develop dedicated cycle lanes and pedestrian-friendly footpaths across Islamabad, along with a comprehensive campaign to improve residential sectors, modernize shopping malls and remove illegal encroachments across the federal capital.
The decisions were taken during a recent high-level meeting chaired by CDA Islamabad Chairman and Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa at the CDA headquarters. Senior officials from the areas of administration, engineering, planning and the environment participated in the session.
During the meeting, the officials gave detailed information about the ongoing rehabilitation and improvement works in various residential and commercial sectors. Projects include the repair and renovation of parking areas, improvement and widening of trails and the improvement of commercial areas, as well as Class III shopping centers to align them with modern urban standards.
Highlighting the importance of sustainable and environmentally friendly mobility, the head of the CDA directed the construction of bicycle lanes along the existing sidewalks in different sectors of the city. It also called for the development of dedicated pedestrian pathways in major shopping centers to facilitate safe, convenient and uninterrupted movement for both residents and visitors.
In a parallel measure, the authority has intensified its focus on urban law enforcement and management. Randhawa issued clear directives for the immediate removal of all illegal constructions and encroachments from residential neighborhoods and commercial areas, signaling a renewed and stricter crackdown aimed at reclaiming public spaces and improving city order.
The meeting also reviewed plans to modernize key elements of the city’s infrastructure, including the installation of improved signs, better lane markings and the expansion of digital parking systems to streamline traffic management. Regular landscaping, horticulture and maintenance works will also be carried out to improve the overall aesthetic appeal of the sectors and shopping centres.
Special emphasis was placed on repairing and improving essential civic infrastructure such as damaged sewers, paving stones and sewage and drainage systems, which have long been a source of concern for residents in various parts of the capital.
Underlining the importance of Islamabad’s image as a clean and well-planned city, the CDA chairman directed officials to prioritize beautification of all entry points to the capital and ensure higher standards of sanitation and cleanliness across the city.
He stressed that all development projects must be completed within stipulated timelines and in accordance with high quality standards, adding that provision of modern urban services, improved infrastructure and overall beautification of Islamabad remain key priorities for the authority.
