CDA to advertise for procurement of CNG buses soon

Capital Development Authority (CDA) finalised the feasibility report for launching of Prime Minister's CDA Rapid Bus Transit project and will advertise for the procurement of CNG buses in the coming two weeks.
Talking to media persons here on Tuesday, CDA Chairman Imtiaz Inayat Elahi said that a committee comprising members of Traffic Police, Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT), traffic engineer and CDA would discuss all the matters related to the project and submit a report to the Authority within one month.
He said Rs 300 million project comprising 35 buses is being launched on pilot basis which will provide luxurious travelling facilities to the residents of twin cities. The air conditioned buses with nominal ticket structure will run from Faizabad to Secretariat via Best Western and Zero Point routes. To a question, he said Ministry of Petroleum has agreed to ensure uninterrupted gas supply for the buses, on the directives of Prime Minister, Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani.
However, two high pressure dispensing units will also be installed for the purpose soon, he said. Meanwhile, CDA Chairman said the Authority is giving special focus on beautification of the capital city preserving its green character. The efforts are being carried out to make Islamabad `Flower City' as marigold and other flowers are to be planted during this monsoon plantation drive.
Around 300,000 saplings have already been planted and 100 per cent survival of the plants is being ensured. However, 200,000 more saplings will be planted during this season. Clarifying about the failure of CDA's drainage system during heavy monsoon rains on August 8 here, Imtiaz said the capital's drainage system is perfect according to international standards but water accumulation on roads and various buildings happened due to unpredictable heavy rain which was above normal of the average rainfall in the city.
The roads were cleared within two hours, however, the water accumulation at President House on its fourth floor was due to negligence for which the relevant official has been suspended after inquiry. After getting good response from Park Enclave, CDA would launch a housing scheme for low income middle class in the zone IV soon, CDA Chairman said. He said CDA is streamlining all its matters including land acquisition, financial disciplines and others and timely actions are to be taken if any negligence is reported. However, FIA has the legal right for conducting inquiry.