Capital Development Authority (CDA) has unveiled plans to establish car-free zones in Islamabad’s Blue Area and Jinnah Super Market. The initiative, set to create pedestrian-only streets, aims to promote walking, improve accessibility, and enhance the overall visitor experience in these popular areas.
This decision was taken during a meeting at the CDA Headquarters on Wednesday, led by CDA Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa, and attended by senior officers and board members of the CDA.
Key Features of Car-Free Zones in Islamabad
- Blue Area Transformation: A section of Blue Area, stretching from the new parking plaza to the Khyber Plaza area (G-7 and F-7), will be designated as a pedestrian-only zone.
- Jinnah Super Market: A portion of Jinnah Super Market will also become a car-free zone, further enhancing pedestrian accessibility.
- Electric Cart Service: To aid elderly visitors and families with children, an electric cart service will be introduced to ferry people in and out of the designated car-free zones.
- Food Stalls and Weekend Markets: Food stalls, including popular chains, will be set up along the pedestrian tracks on weekends to promote local businesses and offer a diverse range of food options.
- High-Quality Infrastructure: The pedestrian areas will feature well-designed pathways, benches, and trash bins, ensuring comfort and convenience for visitors. Digital screens will also be installed at entry and exit points for better navigation.
Enhancing Public Spaces and Livability
Chairman Randhawa stressed the importance of completing the Blue Area parking plaza before starting work on the pedestrian tracks. This facility, which is nearing completion, will offer parking for 950 vehicles, ensuring visitors have a designated space for their cars before entering the pedestrian zone.
“Our parking plaza in Blue Area is in its final stages and will become operational soon. People will park their vehicles in this facility before entering the pedestrian street,” a CDA official said, confirming the timeline for the project.
Once operational, the pedestrian area will stretch across an 800-metre stretch from the parking plaza to the Khyber Plaza area. The project will begin on the Jinnah Avenue side and will gradually expand.
“In the first phase, it would be established on Jinnah Avenue side and later on, it will be expanded,” the CDA official added. Additionally, three smaller pedestrian zones will be created within Jinnah Super Market, including areas around the Gol Market.
Creating a Vibrant, Inclusive Space
The CDA meeting also focused on improving the overall aesthetic appeal and functionality of the area. Chairman Randhawa emphasized the need for uniformity in the design of signboards outside shops and stressed the importance of creating an aesthetically pleasing environment through the renovation of building facades in the Blue Area.
“The facade of buildings in Islamabad’s Blue Area should be improved,” he said, highlighting the project’s broader impact on the city’s visual and cultural landscape.
The initiative also aims to improve cleanliness and public convenience. As part of the plan, benches will be strategically placed along the pedestrian tracks, and separate trash bins will be installed to encourage cleanliness and a more organized urban environment.
Project timeline and next steps
The CDA is moving forward with the project, and work will begin soon on both the Blue Area and Jinnah Super Market car-free zones. The first phase of the project will see the establishment of the pedestrian tracks, followed by the installation of food stalls and electric cart services.
The completion of these initiatives is expected to significantly enhance the pedestrian experience, while providing a more attractive and accessible environment for both locals and visitors alike.
“A high-standard cleanliness system should be ensured at all times in these areas,” said Chairman Randhawa, reinforcing the CDA’s commitment to maintaining cleanliness and providing a pleasant experience for visitors.
