CDA’s Efforts to Transform Islamabad into a Green, Beautiful and Tourist-Friendly Capital

Islamabad is not only the federal capital of Pakistan but also one of the country’s most beautiful and naturally gifted cities. Located at the foothills of the Margalla Hills, the capital is known for its greenery, wide roads, parks, lakes, hiking trails and well-planned sectors.

As the face of Pakistan before foreign diplomats, investors, tourists and international visitors, the cleanliness, beauty and overall environment of Islamabad have a direct impact on the country’s image. Its natural beauty and strategic location also give the city significant potential to become a major tourism and recreational destination.

In this regard, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) is working on various initiatives aimed at improving the environment, beautifying public spaces and expanding recreational and tourism facilities in Islamabad.

Under the leadership of Federal Minister for Interior Senator Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi and Chairman CDA Sohail Ashraf, the authority is focusing on improving Islamabad’s parks, markets, green spaces, tourist destinations and public facilities.

The CDA Environment Wing, under Member Environment Abdullah Khurram Niazi, is also working on initiatives related to horticulture, landscaping, tree plantation and the improvement of recreational spaces.

One of the key initiatives is the proposed transformation of CDA’s main nursery into Gardenia Hub. The facility is expected to promote flowers, plants, gardening and horticulture while providing a dedicated space for families, students, gardening enthusiasts and visitors.

The availability of flowers, plants and horticultural products through physical and online channels could also encourage citizens, businesses and institutions to contribute to the vision of a greener Islamabad.

CDA’s beautification efforts are also being extended to major commercial areas, including Aabpara Market, Super Market, Melody Market and Jinnah Super Market. Improvements in cleanliness, landscaping, lighting, waste management and public facilities can provide citizens and visitors with a better shopping environment.

The development of flower shops and horticultural facilities in major markets can further enhance the visual appeal of these commercial areas while promoting Islamabad’s distinctive identity.

Public parks are another important part of Islamabad’s urban environment. CDA’s efforts to improve F-9 Park, Lake View Park and parks in different sectors can provide citizens with better opportunities for exercise, recreation, family activities and relaxation.

Improved landscaping, walking and jogging facilities, sports areas, cleanliness, lighting and visitor services can make these parks more attractive for families, young people and tourists.

Tree plantation is also an important component of Islamabad’s environmental development. A comprehensive and scientifically planned plantation programme can help improve air quality, reduce urban heat, support biodiversity and enhance the beauty of roads and public spaces.

The long-term objective should be to ensure that newly planted trees survive and become permanent environmental assets. Regular monitoring, suitable plant selection, water conservation and proper maintenance can strengthen Islamabad’s green character.

The proposed Safari Park could further expand the city’s tourism and recreational opportunities by combining wildlife, conservation, environmental education and family entertainment. If developed according to appropriate environmental and animal welfare standards, the project could become an important attraction for both local and international visitors.

The proposed Theme Park could also provide new entertainment opportunities for families and children. Such a facility could contribute to Islamabad’s tourism economy while creating employment and business opportunities.

The Margalla Hills and Daman-e-Koh remain among Islamabad’s most important natural attractions. The proposed chairlift and cable car project from Saidpur Village towards Daman-e-Koh could provide visitors with a new way to experience the natural beauty of the area.

However, any tourism development in the Margalla Hills should be accompanied by strong environmental safeguards, biodiversity protection, safety measures and proper visitor management.

Daman-e-Koh and other scenic locations can also be further improved through better cleanliness, landscaping, seating facilities, pedestrian arrangements, safety measures and visitor information services.

Islamabad’s walking, jogging and hiking trails are another major attraction. Continued improvement of these trails can encourage healthier lifestyles while allowing residents and visitors to enjoy the city’s natural environment.

Better signage, safety arrangements, maintenance, waste management and appropriate visitor facilities can make the trails more accessible and attractive.

Modern sports infrastructure can also contribute to Islamabad’s development as a vibrant capital. The proposed world-class cricket stadium could provide facilities for national and international sporting events while creating opportunities for young athletes.

Environmental protection should remain at the centre of all development activities. Water conservation, rainwater harvesting, recycling, renewable energy, efficient lighting and environmentally responsible construction can help make Islamabad more sustainable and climate resilient.

The development of tourism facilities can also create wider economic opportunities. A stronger tourism sector can benefit hotels, restaurants, transport services, retailers, local businesses and other tourism-related industries.

At the same time, Islamabad needs efficient and citizen-focused administration. Greater use of digital services, GIS technology, online applications, complaint management systems and transparent project monitoring can improve public service delivery.

The combined development of parks, markets, tourism destinations, hiking trails, horticultural facilities and sports infrastructure can contribute to a broader vision for Islamabad as a green, beautiful, clean, healthy and tourist-friendly capital.

The success of these initiatives will depend on proper planning, professional execution, environmental protection, transparent management and long-term maintenance. New projects should be supported by appropriate feasibility studies, safety standards, environmental assessments and measurable performance targets.

Islamabad already has the natural beauty and planned urban character needed to become a world-class destination. With continued efforts by CDA, the city can further strengthen its reputation as a clean, green, safe, beautiful and environmentally sustainable capital.

The vision is clear: Green Islamabad, Beautiful Islamabad, Clean Islamabad, Healthy Islamabad and Tourist-Friendly Islamabad. 🇵🇰