ISLAMABAD: In a recent announcement by the federal government, the newly appointed chief commissioner has been entrusted with overseeing the operations of the Capital Development Authority (CDA), thereby ending a week-long period of uncertainty surrounding the leadership of the civic agency.
Captain (retired) Mohammad Anwarul Haq, a BS-20 officer from the Pakistan Administrative Services, has been designated as the chief commissioner of Islamabad.
He replaced another retired captain, Noorul Amin Mengal, who had been temporarily leading as the acting chairman of CDA.
The transfer of Mengal earlier this month had left a void in leadership, causing speculation about his successor.
However, the interim government’s decision on Thursday saw Mr. Haq assume his role as the chief commissioner of CDA shortly after receiving the official letter.
Subsequently, he conducted a meeting at the CDA headquarters to discuss ongoing development projects and financial matters.
The details suggest that Haq is not unfamiliar with the CDA, as he had previously served as the member environment.
In his new capacity as chairman, he faces the responsibility of overseeing ongoing projects and introducing new initiatives.
Challenges Await as Haq Vows to Enhance Civic Agency’s Impact
At the moment, Islamabad is witnessing the execution of major road projects valued at billions of rupees.
This includes the expansion of the Expressway from PWD to G.T. Road, the construction of roads from Sector D-12 to E-11, the creation of 10th Avenue, Park Road expansion, the 11th Avenue project, and the ongoing widening of sections of Jinnah Avenue.
The 11th Avenue project, launched in June with the groundbreaking by former prime minister Shehbaz Sharif, has yet to commence.
Moreover, crucial decisions regarding the Serena Interchange and portions of the Srinagar Highway are pending, involving concerns raised by the former prime minister over the chosen construction company, whose bid awaits CDA approval.
Priority also lies in completing development work in Sector I-12, I-15, E-12, and C-15, where progress has been sluggish.
Similarly, addressing parking challenges, which have led to shrinking parking spaces across markets and roads, will be another significant task.
Additionally, issues related to drainage, sewage, water pipelines, and encroachments also demand Mr. Haq’s attention.
The long-standing issue of compensation for landholders in sectors like D-13, E-13, F-13, C-13, C-14, C-15, and C-16 remains unresolved.
Meanwhile, the much-needed revision of Islamabad’s master plan, which has been overdue since its creation in 1960, poses a significant challenge.
Promising to Lead Change
Haq has expressed his commitment to enhancing the city’s infrastructure and quality of life.
According to sources, he has also pledged to improve CDA’s tax collection and address property owners’ violations through appropriate fees.
While acknowledging the persistent issues, Haq assured that he would take all necessary measures to bring about improvements.
Source: DAWN
