CDA hikes fee for industrial plots

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has jacked up fees for changing the trade of industrial plots along with the cost of subdividing and merging them.

On Wednesday, the CDA board's 10th meeting was held at the CDA Headquarters under the chairmanship of Muhammad Ali Randhawa.

During the meeting, a decision was to approve increased fees for changing the trade of industrial plots, subdividing industrial plots, and merging industrial plots. These fees have not been increased since 2005. Additionally, the board instructed the compilation of a list of industrial plots being used contrary to their allocated trade without CDA approval.

The establishment of a Project Management Unit (PMU) was another decision taken by the board. This unit is designed to oversee various development projects, ensuring efficient execution and coordination among relevant departments. The initiative is expected to enhance the pace and quality of project completion in Islamabad.

In addition to these measures, the board decided to offer plots for hotels and industrial promotion in Islamabad to attract investment. The CDA Board also approved hiring a consultant for construction supervision of the Islamabad Model Jail project.

The creation of the PMU is reminiscent of former CDA Chairman Kamran Lashari's tenure, during which several significant projects such as 7th Avenue and 9th Avenue were completed. Lashari had established a Project Management Office in his chairman's office, with a director appointed to oversee these projects.

The current chairman's PMU aims to follow a similar model but will replace the existing Project Management Office.

Sources indicate the PMU will activate a monitoring department for all new and ongoing development projects. Departments including Planning and design, engineering wing, works department, environment wing, and others will now operate under this unit. Essentially, all projects will be overseen by the PMU, ensuring streamlined management and execution.