The Capital Development Authority has received a strong response from construction firms after easing eligibility requirements for a major road project worth Rs3.58 billion in Islamabad. A total of 13 companies submitted bids for the construction of a 2.7 kilometre section of Margalla Avenue, highlighting renewed competition in CDA infrastructure tenders.
The project aims to connect Margalla Avenue with the Peshawar Motorway through the GT Road and includes the construction of a modern interchange. CDA officials said the large number of bidders reflects industry confidence after the authority removed earlier fast track and highly restrictive conditions that had limited participation in previous tenders.
Last year, CDA invited bids for five major projects under strict criteria requiring rapid completion of mega schemes. That approach resulted in limited participation and most contracts were awarded to a single joint venture. In contrast, the revised policy has encouraged broader competition, which officials believe will lead to better pricing and improved value for public funds.
Technical bids for the Margalla Avenue project were opened earlier this week, while financial bids will be opened after evaluation. CDA officials said healthy competition is expected as multiple experienced firms have entered the race, increasing transparency and reducing the likelihood of inflated costs.
The road will be developed as a three lane dual carriageway with two lane service roads and a cloverleaf interchange. Once completed, it will provide an alternative route between Islamabad and the GT Road, easing traffic congestion and improving access to the motorway network.
The project will be linked with an adjacent 2.5 kilometre road section being constructed by the National Highway Authority in Rawalpindi at a cost of Rs4.1 billion. CDA officials said work is expected to start soon after the bidding process and the project will be completed within eight months, ending years of delays surrounding the Margalla Avenue motorway link.
