CDA Faces Criticism in NA Panel Over Delay in Islamabad Road Repairs

ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly Standing Committee on Interior on Friday expressed concern over delays in road repairs across Islamabad, with members criticizing the Capital Development Authority (CDA) for allegedly failing to implement the committee’s recommendations.

Committee Chairman Raja Khurram Nawaz said that recommendations issued by the committee are generally implemented by government institutions, but claimed that the CDA remains the only organization that does not fully comply with its directives. He noted that funds had already been released for the repair of several roads and questioned why work had yet to begin.

Responding to the concerns, CDA Chairman Lt. (R) Sohail Ashraf said the authority is simultaneously executing multiple development projects across the capital. He explained that some roads would be constructed under the Prime Minister’s development scheme, adding that budget allocations are a key factor in determining project timelines.

The committee also emphasized that the CDA’s responsibility extends beyond Islamabad’s urban sectors to include rural areas. Raja Khurram Nawaz criticized what he described as unequal development, saying funds are readily available for underpasses and major infrastructure but shortages are cited when it comes to road projects in rural localities.

CDA Chairman informed the committee that the authority has an annual budget of approximately Rs27 billion, which is being utilized for ongoing and upcoming projects, including a new convention centre, a dam, and other development initiatives.

PPP MNA Agha Rafiullah urged the authority to prioritize projects that directly benefit ordinary citizens. In response, the CDA chairman assured the committee that the authority would allocate the maximum possible funding for road development and would provide an update by the following day.