CDA Accelerates Islamabad Development Under Mohsin Naqvi’s Vision
Chairman CDA Sohail Ashraf directs officials to maintain construction quality and approved engineering standards as work progresses on the major road corridor linking Faizabad with the Gulberg side of Islamabad.
ISLAMABAD: Capital Development Authority (CDA) Chairman Sohail Ashraf on Saturday inspected ongoing work on the Islamabad Expressway Service Road East project and directed officials to accelerate construction while ensuring compliance with approved engineering and quality standards.
CDA Reviews Construction Progress
According to a statement issued by the civic authority, the CDA chairman reviewed progress at the project site and received a briefing on construction work, project components and implementation.
Officials Directed to Maintain Quality and Safety
Ashraf directed the concerned officials and executing agencies to ensure that construction was carried out according to approved designs, specifications and timelines, stressing that speed should not come at the expense of quality, durability or safety.
Nine-Kilometre Corridor to Be Widened and Rehabilitated
The project involves the widening and rehabilitation of the Islamabad Expressway Service Road East corridor between Faizabad and Gulberg. CDA’s official procurement records confirm that the authority issued a tender in April for widening and rehabilitation of a nine-kilometre stretch between the two areas.
Project Moves Into Construction Phase
The project has since moved into the construction phase. Recent reporting indicates that the scheme involves replacing the existing service road with a six-lane road stretching approximately 8.5 kilometres from Faizabad towards Gulberg Green. The broader project also includes a flyover connecting the road with the Expressway at Faizabad and an underpass around the Lehtrar Road-Khanna Bridge junction.
Naqvi Previously Directed Fast-Track of Project
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has previously directed CDA to fast-track the project. During an August 5 review of Islamabad development schemes, he also instructed authorities to ensure that the Expressway Service Road project was completed within its stipulated timeframe.
Project Aims to Improve Connectivity
According to the CDA statement issued Saturday, the road improvements form part of the authority’s wider effort to improve connectivity between residential areas, commercial centres and Islamabad’s major entry and exit corridors.
CDA Highlights Benefits for Motorists
CDA says the improved infrastructure is intended to reduce congestion, shorten commuting times and provide safer and smoother movement for motorists.
More Traffic Infrastructure Projects Underway
The authority is simultaneously pursuing other traffic-related infrastructure projects, including underpasses and improvements to major intersections. Earlier this month, the government announced plans for new underpasses at Kashmir Chowk and Faisal Mosque as part of the capital’s infrastructure programme.
CDA Chairman Stresses Timely Completion
During Saturday’s inspection, Ashraf said infrastructure projects should ultimately provide long-term benefits to residents and directed CDA teams to prioritise timely completion and construction quality.
Sohail Ashraf Serving as CDA Chairman
CDA’s official website currently identifies Lt (Retd) Sohail Ashraf as chairman of the authority.
