The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has approved the formation of a Project Management Unit (PMU) for the construction of the New Islamabad Convention, Exhibition and Expo Centre (NICEEC), a major infrastructure project estimated to cost Rs16 billion. The decision was taken during a CDA board meeting chaired by Chairman Sohail Ashraf. The project, planned near the Bhara Kahu Bypass in the Malpur area, is being prepared ahead of next year’s Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) conference.

The decision was taken during a CDA board meeting chaired by Chairman Sohail Ashraf. The project, planned near the Bhara Kahu Bypass in the Malpur area, is being prepared ahead of next year’s Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) conference.

According to the approved PC-I, the convention centre will feature a covered area of 270,000 square feet and is expected to be completed within 18 months.

Officials said the financial bids for the project are scheduled to be opened on July 14. A revised design is also under consideration, which may reduce the covered area while increasing the main hall’s height from 60 feet to 85 feet.

The board also reviewed a proposal to develop a stalled residential sector through a public-private partnership and directed further study before making a final decision.

In addition, members examined a proposed agreement with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for the renovation and shared use of CDA sports grounds, seeking further legal and financial review.

The CDA also gave in-principle approval, subject to federal government clearance, for land allocation to establish an International Gemstone and Jeweller Crafts Exhibition Centre in Sector G-11 and a National History Museum near Malpur.

The decisions reflect the CDA’s continued efforts to expand Islamabad’s infrastructure, promote investment, and improve public facilities.

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