Islamabad to Get Two New Underpasses as Govt Accelerates Infrastructure Reforms

ISLAMABAD, Aug. 5: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Wednesday directed authorities to fast-track key infrastructure projects, strengthen emergency response services and improve the financial sustainability of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) during a high-level meeting at CDA Headquarters.

Chairing the meeting, the minister reviewed the progress of ongoing development schemes and announced that two new underpasses would be constructed to ease traffic congestion and improve urban mobility in the federal capital. Construction of the Kashmir Chowk Underpass and the Faisal Mosque Underpass is scheduled to begin next month.

Mohsin Naqvi also expressed serious concern over the absence of a fully functional Emergency 1122 service in Islamabad, terming the situation unacceptable. He directed officials to take immediate steps to establish an effective Capital Emergency Services institution and complete all legal formalities for the construction of four new emergency service centres at the earliest.

The meeting also reviewed proposals aimed at strengthening the CDA’s financial position through sustainable revenue generation. The minister stressed the need for a long-term revenue model to help the civic authority achieve greater financial self-reliance while continuing to deliver development projects.

He instructed officials to accelerate practical revenue-enhancing initiatives and ensure visible progress within a short timeframe, emphasizing that financial stability is essential for sustaining the pace of development in the capital.

Naqvi further directed that the Expressway Service Road Project be completed within the approved timeline, underscoring the importance of timely execution of public infrastructure schemes.

Officials also briefed the meeting on the progress of several major development projects and future planning initiatives designed to improve Islamabad’s infrastructure, public services and urban management. The discussions reflected the government’s commitment to enhancing civic facilities, reducing traffic congestion and building a financially sustainable municipal administration capable of meeting the capital’s growing development needs.