ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority’s Development Working Party (CDA-DWP) has approved the long-awaited New Islamabad Convention, Expo and Exhibition Centre (NICEEC) at an estimated cost of Rs19.371 billion.
The project, which is expected to be completed within 18 months, will serve as Pakistan’s premier venue for international conventions, exhibitions, and cultural events, and is also slated to host the SCO Summit in 2027.
The approval came during the 78th meeting of the CDA-DWP held on Thursday, chaired by CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner of Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa. Senior officials from the Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Division, Ministry of Interior, Finance Division, CDA Board members, and consultants attended the session.
Officials briefed the meeting that NICEEC will operate as a multifunctional, state-of-the-art complex aimed at strengthening Islamabad’s role as a regional hub for commerce, innovation, diplomacy and cultural exchange.
In addition to the convention centre, the forum also approved the construction of six steel pedestrian bridges across Islamabad at a collective cost of Rs574.682 million. These structures are intended to improve pedestrian safety, reduce road accidents, ease traffic flow, and facilitate schoolchildren, senior citizens and persons with disabilities. The bridges are also planned to be completed in 18 months.
Projects linked to promoting sports facilities in the capital were also reviewed during the meeting.
Speaking on the occasion, Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa said the approved schemes carry significant importance for the capital’s future growth and for enhancing civic services. He directed concerned departments to ensure timely execution with no compromise on quality, adding that all resources would be mobilised to make Islamabad “one of the best capitals in the world” with modern amenities for its residents.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
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