The Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE) has written to the Capital Development Authority (CDA), suggesting the demolition of existing government houses and the construction of high-rise buildings in their place, Express News reported.
This proposal comes amid increased focus on urban planning and land optimization within Islamabad, with the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) also requesting CDA to provide detailed proposals on the matter.
The letter from PIDE highlighted that in the G-6/1 sector, 86 acres of valuable land are currently occupied by single-story government houses. The proposed construction of six high-rise buildings on just 9 acres of this land could potentially free up 77 acres, allowing CDA to generate an estimated Rs55 billion in revenue. The letter also underscored the potential for long-term growth in income through this redevelopment.
The proposal referenced international examples, noting similar urban redevelopment projects in countries such as the UK and India to illustrate the potential benefits. Research Associate Azwar Mohammad Aslam submitted the proposal to CDA, accompanied by a cover letter from SIFC endorsing the idea.
CDA sources have confirmed receipt of the proposal and indicated that thorough studies will be conducted to assess the feasibility and implications of such an initiative before any final decision is made.
