| Islamabad: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is advancing plans to revamp Islamabad’s master plan with international expertise to modernize the capital into a “smart city.” According to a briefing given to the National Assembly Standing Committee on Interior, the CDA is currently in the process of hiring international consultants to guide the update, following a directive issued by the caretaker federal cabinet in January.
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During a National Assembly session chaired by PPP’s Shehla Raza, the briefing provided lawmakers with an overview of the proposed master plan. MNA Shazia Sobia Soomro, also from PPP, requested the review, citing growing urban challenges, which led to its referral to the committee. Information Minister Ataullah Tarar, who responded in the absence of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, expressed the need for lawmakers’ input on the master plan, indicating the importance of elected representatives in the decision-making process.
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In his remarks, Tarar disclosed that the revised master plan was formally presented to the federal cabinet on January 22. It includes recommendations for studying urban models from developed countries to determine how best to integrate technology and public amenities into Islamabad’s future infrastructure. The cabinet’s decision mandates that international, rather than local, consultants be contracted to bring a global perspective to the plan.
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The CDA has already written to the Interior Ministry to obtain approval to issue a formal tender for hiring these international experts. Officials emphasized that the consultancy aims to align the city’s infrastructure with global standards, incorporating features typical of modern “smart cities.” The minister also highlighted that alongside this master plan update, key infrastructure projects—including an IT Park and a cutting-edge cancer hospital—are already underway in the capital, demonstrating Islamabad’s development trajectory in line with advanced urban planning.
Addressing inquiries about expanding Islamabad’s boundaries, particularly due to suburban developments like Bahria Town and DHA, Tarar clarified that there are no plans to extend the city’s official limits.
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The CDA’s comprehensive review of the master plan follows directives from the Islamabad High Court in 2018 and subsequent cabinet orders, which led to the establishment of the Federal Commission to Review the Master Plan of Islamabad. The commission constituted in January 2019 has been tasked with analyzing and revising the master plan to address Islamabad’s evolving urban needs. Once the consultants complete their study and recommendations are formalized, the full details of the revised master plan will be presented to the federal government for final approval. |
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