ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has cancelled a Rs160 million tender for the construction of boundary walls around four graveyards in Islamabad after reports emerged that the work had already been completed prior to the tender opening — a move insiders describe as a “face-saving exercise” rather than genuine accountability.
According to official records, the civic body had announced tenders on September 20 for constructing boundary walls at Sohan Graveyard (Expressway), Shakrial Graveyard (Expressway), Margalla Town Graveyard, and the graveyard near Zia Mosque, with bids scheduled to open on October 16. However, the work was carried out weeks before the tender process, allegedly through private contractors operating without formal approval.
After the issue surfaced in the media, the CDA cancelled the tender and announced a probe. “CDA has taken notice of the alleged irregularity in the tendering process and has declared the tender null and void. A probe has been ordered, and if any malafide intention is found, disciplinary proceedings will follow,” said CDA spokesperson Shahid Kiani in a written reply to Infra News PK.
However, sources within the authority allege that senior officials were aware of and involved in the irregularities. “What kind of probe is this when boundary walls can be seen with the naked eye? Everything is on record — from tender dates to completed work — yet CDA insists on forming a committee instead of taking direct action,” one insider remarked.
Officials familiar with CDA’s procurement procedures argue that such practices undermine transparency and open competition. “When work is completed in advance, contractors already assured of winning submit inflated bids, leading to losses to the public exchequer,” a source explained.
Another official questioned the financial implications of the cancellation. “If the tender stands cancelled, who will pay the contractors who have already carried out the work? It will be worth watching whether officials arrange payments off the record or compensate them through other channels,” the source added.
Interestingly, the Sector Development Division — the wing responsible for this project — is led by an officer previously penalised with a two-year reduction in time scale over illegal plot allotments. Despite that disciplinary history, he continues to oversee major development projects within the CDA.
Observers believe that unless strict action is taken against those involved, the pattern of issuing “sham tenders” after completing work will persist. “The CDA must ensure transparency and hold all responsible accountable to prevent future misuse of authority,” a senior official said.
