Islamabad, 6 August 2024 (TID): Zimbabwean Ambassador H.E. Titus M.J. Abu Bastu visited the Capital Development Authority (CDA) headquarters, where he was warmly received by Chairman CDA, Muhammad Ali Rindhawa. The two sides discussed matters of mutual interest.
Ambassador Bastu praised Chairman Rindhawa’s efforts to beautify Islamabad, particularly expressing interest in the solid waste management initiative. He suggested inviting high-quality companies to manage solid waste in Islamabad.
Chairman Rindhawa briefed the ambassador on the Safari Park project, which aims to increase tourism in Islamabad. The park will have a capacity for over 5,000 animals, with 2,000 animals to be housed in the first phase. Ambassador Bastu offered to facilitate the import of animals from Zimbabwe for the Safari Park.
Additionally, Chairman Rindhawa announced plans to relocate the Zimbabwean Embassy to the Diplomatic Enclave, and Ambassador Bastu expressed hope for a swift resolution to the matter through the Foreign Office.
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) Board, chaired by Chairman CDA, held its 10th meeting, approving several key decisions to enhance Islamabad’s development. The meeting was attended by all CDA Board members, who discussed various agenda items to boost the city’s growth.
In a significant move, the CDA Board approved the hiring of a consultant for the Safari Park project under the PPA Law (42F).
This decision paves the way for the development of a world-class Safari Park in Islamabad, which will not only promote tourism but also provide a unique recreational facility for residents.
Ambassador of Zimbabwe called on Chairman CDA & Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa at CDA headquarters in Islamabad today. They discussed areas of mutual cooperation, development initiatives, and opportunities for future collaboration between Harare and Islamabad 🇵🇰🇿🇼 pic.twitter.com/JdivVlNpog
— Office of the Chairman CDA, Islamabad. (@CDAthecapital) August 6, 2024
The Board also approved increases in fees for industrial plot trade, sub-division, and amalgamation, which had remained unchanged since 2005.
This decision aims to generate additional revenue for the CDA, enabling it to undertake more development projects in the city. Furthermore, the Board directed the compilation of a list of industrial plots being used contrary to their allocated trade without CDA approval.
To ensure effective project management, the CDA Board approved the establishment of a Project Management Unit (PMU).
The PMU will oversee various projects, ensuring their timely completion and quality. Additionally, the Board decided to offer industrial plots to promote hotels and industries in Islamabad, attracting investment and stimulating economic growth.
The meeting also saw the approval of hiring a consultant for construction supervision of the Islamabad Model Jail project. This decision ensures that the project will be completed to the highest standards, providing a state-of-the-art correctional facility.