ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority has made substantial headway in modernizing Islamabad’s streetlight infrastructure, with 1,419 energy-efficient LED units now operational throughout the city. Officials confirmed that the remaining installations are targeted for completion before the end of September.
During a comprehensive review session on Tuesday, CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa received updates on the ambitious lighting overhaul. The newly installed LED systems now illuminate critical transportation arteries, including the Srinagar Highway route to New Islamabad International Airport, the stretch from Faizabad to Shah Faisal Mosque, and Margalla Road spanning from F-5 to F-11 sectors.
The comprehensive modernization effort aims to replace deteriorating and malfunctioning streetlights while enhancing both road safety standards and the capital’s aesthetic appeal after dark. Randhawa emphasized the urgency of completing installations along major traffic corridors and public recreational areas, specifically directing teams to prioritize lighting installations at F-9 Park and similar green spaces.
“Dependable and contemporary street lighting infrastructure is essential for secure transportation and establishing Islamabad’s reputation as a dynamic, forward-thinking capital city. We must deliver tangible improvements within the coming weeks,” Randhawa declared during the meeting.
Project officials noted that the current phase will result in thousands of streetlights citywide being converted to LED technology, delivering reduced operational expenses while providing enhanced brightness and extended operational life spans.
The development review extended beyond lighting initiatives, encompassing multiple infrastructure projects. The Shaheen Chowk underpass has completed its bidding phase, prompting Randhawa to mandate implementation of alternative traffic routing and temporary parking solutions near Fatima Jinnah Park during the construction period.
Discussion also covered the T-Chowk Rawat flyover development, with specific instructions for incorporating permanent LED and SMD lighting systems. For the persistently congested Faizabad Interchange, Randhawa mandated a comprehensive redesign approach to address long-standing traffic flow challenges.
The session additionally reviewed the transformation of CDA Nursery facilities into the enhanced “Gardenia Hub,” which now incorporates greenhouse structures and retail floral outlets. Randhawa also authorized designation of specialized areas enabling diplomatic community participation in environmental tree-planting programs.
Construction work on graveyard improvements along the Expressway, including perimeter wall development, approaches completion according to project updates.
Wrapping up the proceedings, Randhawa reinforced expectations for prompt project delivery across all initiatives. “Accelerated completion of these development programs will enhance public amenities while advancing Islamabad’s transformation into a contemporary, secure, and exemplary metropolitan center,” he concluded.
