The government has approved the development of an expansive 1,000-acre public park located at the foothills of the Margalla Hills in Islamabad. This initiative aims to enhance recreational amenities for residents and boost investment opportunities in the capital.
The decision emerged from a meeting chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi at the Capital Development Authority (CDA) headquarters, where officials also reviewed ongoing and upcoming urban development projects within the city. The planned park is expected to offer state-of-the-art leisure facilities and contribute significantly to improving Islamabad’s urban environment.
Minister Naqvi emphasized the government’s vision to transform Islamabad into a model city that provides international-standard amenities and recreational options for its citizens. In a significant development, the meeting also approved plans to establish five-star hotels through joint ventures with international companies. Additionally, progress was reviewed on a separate five-star hotel project being developed in partnership with the Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution.
To attract further investment, Naqvi directed the formulation of a new hotel policy that would offer zero-tax incentives to potential investors. Meanwhile, authorities were tasked with conducting a comprehensive survey of all land and properties in Islamabad, to be carried out by the Survey of Pakistan. This measure aims to enhance land management and increase transparency.
Furthermore, the meeting called for the appointment of a dedicated marketing team to oversee future property auctions, ensuring wider participation from investors. Another key decision was the establishment of a central control room for emergency services within the Safe City Islamabad system, aimed at improving the city’s emergency response capabilities.
CDA Chairman and Islamabad Chief Commissioner Sohail Ashraf provided updates on various development initiatives, including plans to digitize all CDA data and transfer systems. A digital dashboard featuring a one-window operation is also being introduced to streamline public service delivery, alongside efforts to eliminate redundant positions within the authority.
The meeting was attended by CDA members and other relevant officials, marking a comprehensive approach to advancing Islamabad’s infrastructure and urban planning.
