The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has approved the establishment of a Project Management Unit (PMU) for the New Islamabad Convention, Exhibition and Expo Centre (NICEEC) while reviewing a proposal to develop a stalled residential sector through a public-private partnership (PPP).
The decisions were made during a CDA Board meeting chaired by Chairman Sohail Ashraf, where several major development initiatives and policy matters were discussed.
The PMU has been created on the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to oversee the timely execution of the Expo Centre project ahead of next year’s Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) conference.
According to officials, the bidding process is in its final stages, with financial bids scheduled to be opened on July 14. The project, estimated to cost Rs. 16 billion, is expected to be completed within 18 months.
The new convention and exhibition centre will be constructed near the Bhara Kahu Bypass in the Malpur area, approximately three kilometres from the existing Jinnah Convention Centre. Authorities are also considering a revised design that would reduce the covered area while increasing the height of the main exhibition hall.
The CDA Board also reviewed a proposal to revive one of Islamabad’s stalled residential sectors through a joint venture under the PPP model. However, members directed the relevant departments to conduct further technical and financial studies before the proposal is finalized and brought back for approval.
In another key discussion, the board reviewed a proposed agreement with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) under which the PCB would upgrade CDA sports grounds in return for hosting tournaments at the facilities. The proposal has been sent for further legal and financial review before a final decision is made.
Additionally, the board granted in-principle approval, subject to federal government consent, for the allocation of land in Sector G-11 for an International Gemstone and Jewellery Crafts Exhibition Centre. It also approved, in principle, the establishment of a National History Museum near Malpur, adjacent to the planned Safari Park.
