Subtitle: The proposed stadium near Sector D-12 will accommodate more than 35,000 spectators, with the approach road already completed and groundbreaking expected soon.
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has secured a Rs400 million rebate from the contractor for Islamabad’s proposed cricket stadium near Sector D-12, clearing a key issue ahead of the project’s groundbreaking.
The groundbreaking is expected in the coming days, according to CDA officials. The approach road connecting Margalla Road to the stadium site has already been completed.
The project’s estimated cost under the approved planning document, known as the PC-I, is Rs11.9 billion. The Habib-ZKB-EA joint venture submitted the lowest bid of Rs8.9 billion. Following negotiations, the CDA and the contractor agreed on a Rs400 million rebate.
CDA Member Environment Abdullah Khurram Niazi confirmed the rebate and said the groundbreaking was expected soon.
Stadium to Accommodate Over 35,000 Spectators
The planned stadium will have three tiers, stand more than 25 metres tall and accommodate over 35,000 spectators.
The first phase will include construction of the stadium and around three kilometres of roads. In the second phase, the CDA plans to carry out landscaping, electrical work and playing-field preparations, including the construction of cricket pitches.
The stadium is being developed near Sector D-12, at the foothills of the Margalla Hills. The CDA selected this location after also considering a site near Malpur.
Target for Women’s T20 World Cup 2028
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officials hope the stadium will be fully completed and operational before the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2028. The board wants to host some matches of the tournament at the new venue.
However, this remains a target, and the stadium’s readiness and selection as a match venue are not yet confirmed.
Questions About Construction in Zone III
The selected site lies in Zone III of Islamabad, where construction is generally restricted. The CDA maintains that sports and recreational facilities are permitted in the area and that the stadium qualifies as an allowed use.
A previous cricket stadium project at Shakarparian was abandoned following Supreme Court directions. Unlike that earlier project, the CDA will construct the new stadium itself.
With the rebate issue settled and the approach road completed, the project is expected to move towards its groundbreaking. The next key milestone will be the start of construction and confirmation of the project schedule.
