By The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has launched a significant urban enhancement project to transform a major stretch of Islamabad’s Blue Area into a vehicle-free pedestrian zone. The initiative is designed to promote outdoor leisure, food culture, and digital public engagement while improving the capital’s urban environment.
According to CDA officials, the Rs. 240 million project spans approximately 800 meters of Jinnah Avenue, stretching from Savour Foods to Khyber Plaza. Once completed, the area will serve as a walk-and-shop district, encouraging citizens to explore, dine, and relax in a safe and enjoyable public setting without vehicle interference.
Key Features of the Blue Area Pedestrian Project
The civic body has already initiated civil work through its engineering wing. The new pedestrian corridor will include:
- Dedicated walkways and seating areas
- Food outlets and street dining spaces
- Digital installations and LED entertainment screens at entry and exit points
- Landscaping and decorative lighting
- A clean, organized environment prioritizing foot traffic
To accommodate drivers, visitors will be able to park in the nearby multi-storey parking plaza with 950 parking spaces, along with 150 additional parking spots near Khyber Plaza and the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS).
Completion Timeline and Consultation with Stakeholders
The project design was finalized after consultations with Blue Area traders, ensuring business operations remain unaffected during and after the development. According to CDA Member Engineering Syed Nafasat Raza, the authority aims to complete the project in 45 days, and finish lighting and aesthetic improvements within two months.
He noted that the initiative aligns with directives from the Interior Minister and CDA Chairman, both of whom are focused on enhancing Islamabad’s public recreation offerings. “This is an ideal location for a food street and public recreation. Our goal is to make the zone a safe and attractive place for families,” Raza stated.
Part of a Broader Urban Development Vision
Currently, Islamabad has only one designated food street — Melody Food Park — which has faced challenges due to maintenance and parking issues. The Blue Area pedestrian zone is intended to serve as a pilot model that could be replicated in Jinnah Super Market and other commercial districts.
Additionally, CDA has announced plans for Capital Street, a dedicated entertainment and dining destination near Shakarparian, adjacent to the Art and Craft Village. This project will include restaurants, art studios, and an expo hall, though construction is yet to begin.
Disclaimer
Project timelines and design plans are based on current CDA announcements and may be subject to change. Visitors and traders are encouraged to follow official CDA updates for the latest developments.
