The Asian Development Bank has expressed its intent to support the Capital Development Authority in reducing smog, improving air quality and promoting environmental protection in Islamabad. A high level ADB delegation led by Senior Financial Sector Economist Andrew McCartney visited the CDA headquarters and held discussions with the authority’s chairman and senior officials. The visit marked the beginning of a week long scoping mission focused on developing an Air Quality Improvement Programme for the federal capital.
According to officials, the ADB mission is in Pakistan until December 5 and is expected to hold several meetings with government agencies and partner organisations. The key objective of the scoping mission is to outline the design features of the Air Quality Improvement Sector Development Programme and suggest policy actions that will support a future loan component. The mission will also assess major challenges affecting programme design and recommend improvements for better implementation.
The CDA stated in a press release that the ADB delegation would complete its consultation process and provide technical assistance on a range of eco friendly initiatives. The delegation discussed smog mitigation, elimination of air pollution and broader environmental protection measures for Islamabad. ADB experts also examined ongoing efforts in the transport sector where the CDA has introduced measures to reduce emissions and improve air quality monitoring.
CDA Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa reaffirmed that environmental protection and pollution control remain top priorities for the authority. He said that the CDA has already adopted regulations of the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority in its Electric Vehicle policy. He added that steps are being taken to expand the electric vehicle charging network across the city and encourage environment friendly mobility.
The chairman also shared that a modern solid waste management project will be launched to address pollution caused by improper garbage disposal. Various projects are under review to make green financing and carbon credit acquisition possible for Islamabad. The ADB delegation assured technical support for developing these green financing mechanisms and for advancing other sustainability initiatives.
The meeting concluded with both sides agreeing to expand cooperation for air quality improvement, smog reduction and long term environmental protection in Islamabad. The ADB is also assisting the CDA in preparing the city’s first Transport Master Plan and the Inter City Bus Terminals project, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable urban development.
