Capital Development Authority (CDA) is planning to convert dead federal capital into a lively city with hustle and bustle by constructing a number of recreational spots. While talking to Business Recorder here on Saturday official sources said that CDA is initiating a number of projects in order to make Islamabad beautiful.
"CDA is not only constructing new recreational spots for the public but also renovating the old ones to attract maximum number of visitors", said officials. Sharing the details official said the current example is of Daman-e-Koh, Peer Sohawa, Rawal Park, extension of Islamabad zoo and so on.
Among other projects, the main project of CDA is currently focusing on turning F-9 Fatima Jinnah Park into a Central City Park at par with international standards. The project is worth Rs 5 billion.
The aim behind the project is to provide all sort of recreational activities to the general masses at one place. Such as cricket stadium, amusement park, thematic gardens, waterfall, children park, soccer field, open air theater, citizen club, jogging/hiking/cycling tracks and so on.
"However, the unique thing about the park will be a variety of gardens such as Japanese, Chinese and Persian gardens. These gardens will be constructed in a way that they will reflect their respective cultures", said the officials.
Giving more details of the projects the sources said that CDA is also working on the development of arts and Crafts Village near Saidpur Model Village. This major arts and crafts village is being planned, with a view to house the artisans themselves and their shops and display booths.
Spread over 45 acres, after completion, the village will attract craftsmen and artisans from across the country, reflecting the rich heritage of Pakistan, they said.
Furthermore, they said that the village would be a tourist friendly place having home cafes and handicraft bazaars, along with the restoration of a 150-year-old temple, and upgrading of services and environment. Cultural complex at Shakar Parian, which is underway, is being built with a perspective of making the city a center of culture and art.
"These spots will not only attract the local people but also foreign tourists too", said official sources. When the sources were asked that whether any of the countries were providing any funds for establishing the parks, officials replied that "No all the expenses will be borne by the CDA." By providing such recreational spots to the masses, CDA will no doubt change the concept and perception of the people who consider it as a 'Dead City'.