ISLAMABAD: The Special Technology Zone Authority (STZA) is all set to start work for setting up the Islamabad Technopolis near Chak Shahzad.

Sources in STZA said that National Engineering Services Pakistan (Nespak) is the consultant of the project. Its land use and layout plan has been prepared jointly by the consultant and the authority, they said, adding that the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has been requested to approve the layout plan (LOP) and after its approval, the authority will move forward towards starting construction.

The STZA wants to establish the Islamabad Technopolis on 140 acres adjacent to the National Institute of Health (NIH) Colony near Chak Shahzad. The sources said the said land was handed over to STZA by CDA last year.

According to a working paper, “Islamabad Technopolis will act as a catalyst for enhancing technology experts of Pakistan and it is expected to attract Foreign Direct Investment and job opportunities in the technology sector”.

It added that this facility will be the first choice in the region “for global tech companies and expatriates due to its state-of-the-art technology-supportive infrastructure and lucrative tax incentives. Presently, various zone developers/enterprises have been licenced towards starting their construction activities at the Islamabad Technopolis.

According to the website of STZA, the authority was formed to provide legislative and institutional support for development of the national technology sector. This body, under the Cabinet Division, will work towards developing a technology-driven knowledge ecosystem and encourage modern innovative solutions and futuristic entrepreneurship.

Published in Dawn, March 23rd, 2022