ADB's support sought for capital's uplift

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has sought the Asian Development Bank's (ADB) cooperation on several urban development initiatives, including water resource management, bicycle tracks, eco-friendly transport, and the inter-city bus terminal, during a detailed briefing at CDA headquarters on Friday.

CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa led the presentation, joined by senior CDA officials, Nespak consultants, and board members.

He highlighted Islamabad's pressing water challenges, such as supply-demand imbalances, unequal distribution, theft, and leakage, while outlining long-term solutions to ensure sustainable water access.

Randhawa emphasised the urgency of addressing the capital's water crisis, proposing measures such as net metering, tariff adjustments, and system upgrades.

He added that the establishment of the Islamabad Water Agency would enhance the focus on water management and attract international funding for critical projects.

The meeting also reviewed progress on the city's bicycle tracks initiative, with a topographic survey already completed.

As a pilot project, tracks will be developed along Margalla Road, connecting Diplomatic Enclave, F-8, and F-9 Park.

Randhawa directed CDA officials to prioritise the preservation of green belts during construction and involve stakeholders in developing bike-sharing systems, stands, and waiting areas.

Discussions further explored integrating eco-friendly transport into Islamabad's urban network.

Randhawa instructed CDA officers to prepare feasibility studies for transitioning commercial buses to electric vehicles and establish charging stations at the Islamabad Bus Terminal.

Both CDA and ADB reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing Islamabad's infrastructure and improving the quality of life for its residents.