ISLAMABAD: Capital Development Authority (CDA) Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa visited Islamabad Expressway on Saturday and reviewed the construction work on the Korang, railway and Bhinder bridges.

He also reviewed the construction work on the bus bays being built along the expressway. Officials of the Frontier Works Organisation (FWO) briefed the chairman at their camp office about the work on the expressway.

He was assured that the project would be completed by September 30.

They said the pace of work had been affected due to the monsoon rains, however, the project would be completed within the stipulated time. Additionally, it was reported that over 98pc of the project work had been completed. Kak Bridge has been opened to traffic while structural work on the remaining bridges had been completed with rapid progress being made on the retention work and approaches.

The CDA chairman instructed that horticultural work along the expressway should proceed concurrently. He emphasised adopting the best operational and maintenance model for the future construction and upkeep of the expressway.

Later, the CDA chairman visited Park Road and reviewed the ongoing carpeting and road structure work.

Meanwhile, Mr Randhawa also reviewed the renovation work at Jinnah Convention Centre.

During a briefing, he was told that the renovation work was being carried out day and night under the supervision of top architects.

The centre is being upgraded and uplifted to meet international standards. The uplift work includes the renovation of the main hall and committee rooms.

Under the upgrade project, the Convention Centre is undergoing complete flooring, building repairs, painting and glass work. Additionally, furniture and carpets are being improved. Furthermore, attractive landscaping around the centre, including tree plantation, horticultural work and lighting is also in progress.

Mr Randhawa stated that the goal of the renovation was to ensure the centre is well-prepared to host the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting and other international events.

Published in Dawn, August 25th, 2024