ISLAMABAD, Oct 12: The plan to set up a National University of Computer and Emerging Sciences in the Capital is in doldrums due to differences between the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Foundation for Advancement of Science and Technology (FAST) over the price of land, sources told Dawn.

Earlier, the Capital Development Authority had worked out the reserve price at Rs4,500 per square yard based on weighted increase of General Price Index and Average Auction Price to be charged from the Foundation, which had demanded steep reduction in the said price.

The issue was then referred to the cabinet, which asked the CDA to reconsider the decision and give maximum reduction to the FAST.

Later, the CDA agreed to reduce the rate of land from Rs4,500 per sq yd to Rs2,067. But, the FAST wanted to pay at the rate of Rs500 per sq yd.

It means if FAST pays the price on the said rate (Rs500 per sq yd), the remaining amount will have to be paid either by the CDA or the government.

The sources added that if the government took the responsibility to pay the remaining cost, it would open a Pandora’s box, as other public sector universities would also demand the similar treatment.

The sources further added that the FAST was also receiving the financial assistance from Islamic Development Fund for the project, but is reluctant to pay the cost of land, fixed by the CDA.