ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has directed officials to speed up the finalisation of the proposed model graveyard project at the Pandoriyan site, aiming to improve burial facilities for residents of the federal capital.

The instructions were issued during a meeting at CDA Headquarters chaired by Muhammad Ali Randhawa, who also serves as Chief Commissioner Islamabad. Senior officials from administration, engineering, planning and finance divisions attended the session.

According to officials, detailed discussions were held on the layout and facilities of the planned graveyard. The chairman directed that proper access from major roads be ensured to facilitate funeral processions and ease public movement.

He also called for the inclusion of spacious prayer halls for funeral rites, ablution areas and adequate parking arrangements. Modern amenities such as CCTV surveillance systems, an electric hearse and ambulance services were also proposed to enhance security and operational efficiency.

Randhawa emphasised that the project should be designed in line with public needs while maintaining planning standards and timely execution.

During the meeting, the CDA also reviewed progress on several ongoing infrastructure schemes. Officials informed participants that construction work on the Margalla Avenue connection with Motorway M-1 would begin after the opening of bids.

Traffic management measures were discussed, including plans to address congestion at Kashmir Chowk, where a consultant is expected to be hired soon. The meeting was also briefed on the proposed Expressway Service Road East, for which the tendering process to appoint a consultant has been initiated.

Plans to improve traffic flow from Express Chowk to Aga Khan Avenue were reviewed, along with the Eleventh Avenue project, where consultancy services are being sought through a published advertisement.

The CDA chairman directed that Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) be conducted in a timely manner for future development schemes, stressing the importance of environmental safeguards. Progress on the Islamabad Convention Centre, Exhibition and Expo Centre project was also examined.

Officials were instructed to maintain high quality standards across all development projects and ensure completion within stipulated timelines.