ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority and the National Highway Authority have intensified efforts to extend Margalla Avenue to the M1 motorway and develop a new interchange at 17th Avenue in sector H16. Both projects are being pursued as part of a broader initiative to modernize Islamabad’s infrastructure and improve connectivity for commuters traveling between key routes.
A high level meeting was held on Monday at the CDA headquarters, chaired by Chairman CDA and Chief Commissioner Islamabad Muhammad Ali Randhawa. The session was attended by Member Engineering Syed Nafasat Raza, Member Planning and Design Dr Khalid Hafiz, senior NHA officials, consultants and other technical representatives. The meeting reviewed the status of major federal capital development projects currently under execution.
Officials presented a detailed briefing on the extension of Margalla Avenue from N5 to the M1 motorway. The Project Cycle One for the two point seven kilometre portion located within the jurisdiction of Islamabad has been approved by the CDA Departmental Working Party. The project is considered a vital link that will significantly ease travel between the GT Road corridor and northern routes.
The meeting was also informed that the feasibility study for the 17th Avenue Interchange has been completed. With the support of the project consultant, a preliminary design has already been prepared and work on the Project Cycle One is in progress. The interchange will play a crucial role in managing traffic flow and reducing congestion in the rapidly developing H16 and surrounding sectors.
Chairman Randhawa directed that both projects undergo thorough engineering reviews. He instructed the Engineering and Planning wings to resubmit designs after incorporating all technical feedback and emphasized that the tendering process must be completed without delay. Funds for the initial stages of both initiatives have already been allocated.
Upon completion, the Margalla Avenue extension will create a direct and uninterrupted route from GT Road to the M1 motorway, offering improved travel facilities for residents of Islamabad’s suburbs. Chairman Randhawa stated that all obstacles will be removed to ensure timely delivery, adding that these projects are essential for better urban planning, enhanced mobility and the goal of making Islamabad one of the leading capital cities in the world.
