ISLAMABAD, Feb 26 (APP): The Capital Development Authority (CDA) on Thursday directed officials to expedite the finalisation of the design and planning of a proposed model graveyard at the Pandoriyan site, stressing the need to provide improved burial facilities for residents of the capital.
The directions were issued during a meeting at CDA Headquarters chaired by CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner Islamabad Muhammad Ali Randhawa. Senior officials, including members for administration, engineering, planning and finance, as well as directors general and project directors, attended the session.
A detailed discussion was held on the layout and facilities of the planned graveyard. The chairman instructed that access to the site be ensured from major roads to facilitate citizens, particularly during funeral processions.
He also called for the provision of spacious prayer halls for funeral rites, ablution areas and adequate parking facilities.
Officials were further directed to incorporate modern amenities, including CCTV surveillance for security and monitoring, as well as arrangements for an electric hearse and ambulance services.
The CDA chief emphasised that the project should be designed to meet public needs while maintaining proper standards of planning and execution.
The meeting also reviewed progress on the project to connect Margalla Avenue with Motorway M-1.
Officials informed the participants that construction work would commence soon after the opening of bids.
Traffic management initiatives were discussed in detail. Regarding congestion at Kashmir Chowk, the meeting was told that services of a consultant would be acquired shortly.
The participants were also briefed on the proposed Expressway Service Road East, where the tendering process has been initiated to hire a consultant.
Discussion was held on plans to address traffic issues from Express Chowk to Aga Khan Avenue.
Similarly, the construction of Eleventh Avenue came under review, with officials informing the meeting that an advertisement had been issued to engage consultancy services for the project.
Randhawa directed that timely Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) be ensured for future projects, underscoring the importance of environmental safeguards in development planning.
The meeting also reviewed progress on the Islamabad Convention Centre, Exhibition and Expo Centre project.
The CDA chairman stressed that high quality standards must be maintained in all development schemes and that projects should be completed within stipulated timelines.