ISLAMABAD: A ceremony was held at F-9 Park and the Gandhara Citizens and Heritage Center to mark the 65th anniversary of Islamabad’s Master Plan and World Cities Day. On this occasion, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) reaffirmed its commitment to revitalize the founding vision from 1960, which is based on sustainability, modern planning and innovation.
Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, and the Inspector General of Police Islamabad attended the ceremony as special guests. The event was also attended by CDA Board Members, UN-Habitat, DHA, as well as renowned architects, town planners, and professionals from various fields across the country. Similarly, a large number of citizens, including representatives from civil society, university faculty and students, also participated.
Addressing the ceremony, Chairman CDA and Chief Commissioner Islamabad Muhammad Ali Randhawa said, “Let us celebrate the beauty of our city, Islamabad! On this occasion”. He said that today we pay tribute to Islamabad’s Master Plan, which has been a symbol of urban planning and development for 65 years. Chairman CDA emphasized that implementing the Master Plan is the backbone of the city’s core infrastructure and development.
Chairman CDA said that we are fortunate to have inherited a city with a best plan, ranked among the most beautiful cities in the world. He mentioned that all wings of CDA, especially Planning, Environment, Finance, Administration and Engineering, have played a vital role in the city’s planning, development, and environmental protection. He said that CDA is working day and night to preserve the natural beauty of Islamabad and protect its environment.
Chairman CDA said that robust measures have been taken over the past many years for the city’s development, beautification and environmental protection. He highlighted financial autonomy, digital initiatives and collaboration with SUPARCO for satellite imagery for urban planning and addressing land issues as key steps in the city’s rebuilding and reshaping. He mentioned that upcoming mega projects include an Expo Center, five-star hotels and a cricket stadium, among other development schemes.
Chairman CDA said that CDA is fully prepared to deliver several long-pending residential sectors, including C-14, C-15, C-16, I-12, E-12, E-13, D-13, and F-13, while the Margalla Enclave project is being developed in collaboration with the Defence Housing Authority (DHA).
Chairman CDA emphasized that Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) are being prioritized in all development projects. He further said that CDA is committed to transforming Islamabad into a modern and model city by adopting advanced technology and sustainable urban planning and practices.
Inspector General (IG) of Islamabad Police, Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, said that Islamabad is one of the most beautiful Capital’s in the world, rich in natural beauty. He said that Islamabad is the heart of Pakistan, representing diversity of all provinces of the country.
IG Islamabad Police said that Islamabad Police and other departments are making full efforts to maintain peace, security, and development in the city. He mentioned that the mountains, lush greenery and secure environment are key features of Islamabad.
IG Islamabad Police said that security is our strength, and without security, we cannot enjoy the beautiful topography and serenity of any city. He commended the Chairman CDA and his entire team for their remarkable role in the beautification and development of Islamabad. IG Islamabad Police further said that Islamabad is one of the safest cities in the world, where citizens have access to excellent facilities. He said that Islamabad reflects the unity and diversity of Pakistan. He added that under the Safe City project, police are further improving public service through advanced surveillance, digital systems and “Police Station on Wheels.”
Jawad Ali Khan, Senior Advisor of UN-Habitat Pakistan, appreciated CDA’s efforts, said that the authority’s vision aligns with this year’s World Cities Day theme, “People-Centred Smart Cities.”
Executive Director City Planner, Ms. Almas Shakeel, emphasized the need for urban inclusion and eco-friendly planning, stating that from ancient cities to modern Capital’s, true sustainability comes from citizen participation. She further added that we must build cities that are not only smart but also humane.
During the ceremony, senior officers from CDA and experts from various fields gave briefings on urban planning, various initatives for addressing city issues, environmental protection and development projects.
Later, in the second part of the day, a vibrant community festival titled “Islamabad Shehar Mela” was held at F-9 Park, celebrating Islamabad’s 65-year planning journey and World Cities Day. The festival featured smart innovation displays, electric vehicle rides, musical performances, drum circles, children’s fun zones and local food stalls. The “Islamabad Shehar Mela” provided citizens with an opportunity to reconnect with their city’s identity and explore new technologies for sustainable living and smart solutions.