CDA Reviews Progress on Margalla Avenue Extension and 17th Avenue Interchange Projects

Date: Nov 18, 2025

ISLAMABAD: November 17, 2025 : A meeting was held on Monday at the Capital Development Authority (CDA) Headquarters, chaired by Chairman CDA and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa. The meeting was attended by Member Engineering Syed Nafasat Raza, Member Planning & Design Dr. Khalid Hafiz, senior officers of the National Highway Authority (NHA), consultants, and other relevant officials. The session reviewed the progress of major development projects underway in the Federal Capital. The meeting included a detailed briefing on the extension of Margalla Avenue (from N-5 to M-1) and the construction of the 17th Avenue Interchange at H-16. Various technical components and design considerations of both projects were thoroughly discussed. During the briefing on the 17th Avenue Interchange project, it was informed that the feasibility study has been completed and the preliminary design finalized with support from consultants. Work on the preparation of the PC-I is currently in progress. It was decided that the design would be revised and presented again after incorporating recommendations from the CDA Engineering and Planning wings. Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa instructed that all technical aspects be comprehensively reviewed from an engineering perspective and reflected in the final design. The meeting was further briefed that the PC-I for the Margalla Avenue extension—from N-5 to M-1 within the 2.7 km ICT limits—has been approved by the CDA Departmental Working Party (DWP). The NHA representative informed the forum that NHA has secured approval of its PC-I from the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) for its respective portion of the project. Chairman CDA directed that the tendering process for the project be expedited to avoid delays. It was also informed that initial funds have been allocated for the project. Upon completion, the Margalla Avenue extension will establish a direct linkage between GT Road (N-5) and Motorway M-1, significantly improving connectivity. These projects are expected to provide modern and efficient travel facilities to residents, particularly those living in the suburban areas of Islamabad. Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa emphasized that all obstacles delaying these projects must be removed to ensure timely completion. He reaffirmed that these initiatives hold great importance for infrastructure modernization, urban planning, and citizen convenience, adding that all available resources are being utilized to make Islamabad one of the finest capital cities in the world.