CDA, ADB Discuss Joint Strategy to Tackle Air Pollution in Islamabad

Date: Feb 26, 2026

ISLAMABAD: February 25, 2026: A meeting was held on Wednesday at the CDA Headquarters between Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, and a delegation from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to discuss measures for mitigating air pollution, strengthening environmental protection, and improving air quality in the Federal Capital. The ADB delegation included Senior Financial Economist Andrew McCartney and experts from the Bank’s Urban Team. Senior CDA officials, including Member Planning and Design Dr. Khalid Hafiz, Member Finance Tahir Naeem, Director General Resources, and Director General Environment, were also present. During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on strategies to curb air pollution, enhance the Air Quality Index (AQI), and implement sustainable environmental policies in Islamabad. Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa emphasized that environmental protection, particularly reducing air pollution in Islamabad, remains a top priority. He stated that comprehensive measures are being undertaken to preserve and expand the Capital’s green cover. He highlighted that the CDA, in coordination with the ICT administration, is implementing environment-friendly initiatives, including policy reforms and sustainable urban projects. The Chairman noted that the implementation of Electric Vehicle (EV) Regulations began last year, alongside the establishment of electric transport systems and charging stations. Additionally, vehicle carbon emission testing is being conducted to reduce pollution from the transport sector. He further informed the delegation that air quality monitoring stations are being installed in collaboration with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure authentic AQI data. He added that ongoing mega development projects are contributing to a reduction in carbon emissions in the transport sector and suggested that ADB could assist in securing carbon credits for such emission-reduction initiatives. The Chairman also shared updates on the solid waste management project and the establishment of Islamabad’s first scientific landfill site, requesting ADB’s technical assistance in these environment-friendly initiatives. Discussions also focused on preparing a comprehensive action plan for Islamabad under the National Clean Air Policy (NCAP), improving carbon emission data systems, and strengthening governance and policy frameworks. The ADB delegation stressed the need for priority reforms and practical interventions in transport, industry, urban air pollution, open waste burning, agriculture, and livestock sectors. Both sides deliberated on leveraging green finance platforms and accessing carbon credit markets. The ADB delegation expressed readiness to extend support through multi-phased assistance programs. The meeting concluded with an agreement to further strengthen cooperation between ADB and CDA to combat air pollution, improve Islamabad’s AQI, and promote environmental sustainability. Chairman CDA reiterated that these initiatives aim to ensure a safe and healthy environment for citizens and position Islamabad as a model city for environmental protection across Pakistan.