Islamabad Set for Major Development with New Flyovers, Housing Projects and Hotels

Sat Aug 23 2025
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KEY POINTS

  • Construction of new flyover at T-Chowk and underpass at Shaheen Chowk to begin in September
  • Interior Minister Naqvi set September 30 deadline to clear illegal structures across Islamabad
  • Phase One includes a new cycling track, park, secure boundary wall, and upgraded access via Constitution Avenue
  • Work to be fast-tracked in long-delayed sectors like C-14, C-15, C-16, E-12, and I-12

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s capital city is set for a major infrastructure makeover after Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi approved a wide range of development projects.

The plan includes construction of new flyovers and underpasses to ease traffic, the revival of stalled housing sectors, and the construction of five-star hotels to boost the city’s profile as a diplomatic and business hub.

Among the standout projects are a flyover at T-Chowk, an underpass at Shaheen Chowk, and the long-awaited upgradation of the Diplomatic Enclave, complete with a cycling track, park, and infrastructure enhancements.

With firm deadlines in place – including September for groundbreaking and December for hotel groundwork – the capital appears poised to enter a new phase of growth and civic improvement.

This was decided on Saturday in a meeting chaired by Mohsin Naqvi, at the Capital Development Authority (CDA) Headquarters and unveiled a sweeping roadmap for Islamabad’s development.

Leading the list of approved ventures is the construction of a flyover at T-Chowk and an underpass at Shaheen Chowk, two key choke points for commuters.

Groundbreaking for both is set for early September. These traffic solutions are more than cosmetic – they aim to address long-standing congestion problems that daily plague residents travelling between the capital and surrounding areas.

“We are not just planning development – we are delivering it with deadlines,” Naqvi reportedly said during the meeting.

But infrastructure isn’t the only issue in the spotlight. Naqvi has declared a city-wide crackdown on encroachments, a persistent blight on Islamabad’s planning and public spaces.

He issued a September 30 deadline to clear illegal structures, with strict instructions to senior officers – including SSP Operations, ADCG, and Director DMA – to lead the charge.

“There will be no leniency,” he warned, underlining that urban order is non-negotiable.

Housing societies were also cautioned: comply with regulations or face disciplinary action.

New look for Diplomatic Enclave

A notable highlight of the meeting was the green light for Phase One of the Diplomatic Enclave Upgradation Project – a makeover that will include enhancements to the Constitution Avenue entrance, adjoining roads, construction of a cycling track, a public park, and a secure boundary wall.

The plan reflects a vision of Islamabad not just as a seat of power, but as a city that caters to diplomacy, security, and aesthetic appeal.

Chronic delays in the development of several residential sectors have long frustrated citizens. Now, Naqvi has demanded fast-tracked work in sectors C-14, C-15, and C-16, and a renewed push in E-12 and I-12, where thousands of allottees are still waiting for possession of their plots — some, for over a decade.

He also directed the CDA to prepare a comprehensive master plan for new sectors – C-13, D-13, E-13, and F-13 – expanding the city’s footprint in a structured way.

Islamabad’s hospitality sector is also getting a boost. Naqvi has ordered the completion of groundwork for two new five-star hotels by December 31, signalling a clear push toward positioning the capital as a destination for business, diplomacy, and tourism.

The meeting also touched on projects with deeper social impact. The Model Jail project – long in the works – is finally nearing completion, offering a modern correctional facility to replace outdated setups.

Additionally, a site has been designated for the Capital House, expected to become a central hub for federal administrative coordination.

 

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