CDA’s proposal to widen diplomatic enclave roads faces pushback
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is preparing a major infrastructure redesign inside Islamabad’s Diplomatic Enclave that includes converting existing internal roads into dual three-lane carriageways, a move that has triggered concerns among diplomats over possible environmental damage and possible changes to embassy boundaries.
According to officials and diplomatic sources, senior CDA authorities recently briefed members of the diplomatic community on the proposed modernization plan through detailed presentations and maps outlining large-scale changes to the enclave’s internal layout.
The proposed project includes widening existing roads, construction of new roundabouts and access routes, redesign of security infrastructure, development of cycling tracks, and installation of modernized entry gates as part of a broader expansion and upgrading plan for the high-security diplomatic zone.
Officials said the initiative was aimed at improving internal traffic movement, enhancing security arrangements, and preparing the enclave for the possible establishment of additional foreign missions in the coming years.
However, several diplomats who attended the briefing questioned the scale and necessity of the proposed expansion, arguing that the enclave currently experiences limited traffic flow and remains one of the least congested areas of the federal capital.
“One does not usually see traffic pressure inside the enclave except for limited movement during office opening and closing hours,” a diplomat from a European mission told Business Recorder on condition of anonymity.
“Expanding the roads into large multi-lane corridors may fundamentally alter the character of the area without any visible operational need.”
Diplomatic sources said concerns were also raised regarding the possible impact on the enclave’s green landscape, including mature shady trees, green belts and open spaces that have long been considered one of the defining features of the diplomatic district.
Sources familiar with the planning process said portions of boundary walls of certain embassies may need to be shifted or redesigned to accommodate the proposed road widening and related infrastructure work.
Meanwhile, CDA has formally initiated portions of the project through the procurement process. An e-bid invitation issued by the authority on May 14, 2026 invited bids for the “Rehabilitation & Re-carpeting of Roads (MR-I from Gate No. 02 to USA Embassy) in Diplomatic Enclave G-5/2, Islamabad” with an estimated cost of Rs133.5 million and bid security of Rs4 million.
The tender document states that the project falls under a broader infrastructure upgradation plan being executed by CDA’s Procurement & Contract Agreement-I wing, with bids scheduled to open on June 3, 2026.
Officials familiar with the project, however, maintained that environmental considerations were being incorporated into the planning process and denied that the enclave’s overall aesthetics would be compromised.
“There will be no significant damage to the greenery or landscape of the Diplomatic Enclave,” a CDA official said while confirming that consultations and briefings had been held with diplomats regarding the proposed project.
The official added that the redesign was being planned with a balance between security, sustainability and future infrastructure requirements.