Islamabad security, uplift projects reviewed

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad administration is stepping up security and accelerating key infrastructure projects, with Interior Secretary Muhammad Khurram Agha directing authorities to fast-track both safety measures and urban development projects across the capital. Chairing a meeting at CDA headquarters on Friday, Agha reviewed law and order arrangements and progress on major projects. Officials informed the meeting that installation of entry gates at various points of the city has been completed, while work on security fencing along entry routes is progressing rapidly. The interior secretary instructed the CDA to ensure timely completion of security-related civil works in coordination with the ICT administration and Islamabad Police. The meeting was also briefed on multiple ongoing infrastructure projects aimed at reducing traffic congestion and improving mobility. Among them, work is under way on the Kashmir Chowk underpass, designed to ease pressure on major arteries. Agha directed that a comprehensive beautification plan, including landscaping, eco-friendly plantation and installation of fountains, be incorporated into the project. Discussions were also held on the construction of the 11th Avenue, which will link Iran Avenue with Srinagar Highway and IJ Principal Road, making it a major future traffic corridor. Officials said work is continuing on the Islamabad Expressway Service Road (East), a 9.5-kilometre stretch from Faizabad to Gulberg, expected to significantly reduce traffic load and cater to future demand. The meeting was further informed that work is in progress on linking Margalla Avenue with Motorway M-1 through a 2.7-kilometre road connecting the National Highway (N-5) directly with the motorway. Contractors are being mobilised and ground-breaking is expected soon. Additionally, the Ataturk Avenue project is being developed to connect Aga Khan Road and Jinnah Avenue through a modern corridor, including upgraded cross-sections and dedicated cycling tracks. Agha emphasised that environmental impact assessments for all projects must be ensured through Pak-EPA. CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa reiterated the authority’s commitment to timely completion and maintaining high construction standards, stating that all resources are being utilised to transform Islamabad into a modern, well-planned city of international standards. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

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