ISLAMABAD: Capital Development Authority (CDA) is currently undertaking a major Rs652 million project to upgrade and expand its nursery located along Park Road. Work began a few months ago and is being carried out by a Lahore-based private contractor. However, questions have been raised regarding the lack of open tendering for the project.
In response, the CDA clarified that the initiative is part of a collaborative partnership with the Baku team, under a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed with the Government of Azerbaijan as part of the sister-city agreement. This MoU aims to foster joint development in beautification, sustainable planning, and infrastructure enhancement across Islamabad.
According to the CDA, other projects under this collaboration include the revitalization of Melody Food Street, modernization of Saidpur Village, and beautification of Srinagar Highway. The nursery is being transformed into a “Gardenia Hub,” a model nursery that will offer affordable plants and trees to both the public and private sectors.
While the CDA claims Baku is funding and leading the work—allowing them to bypass the competitive bidding process—sources suggest the CDA’s own environment wing floated tenders worth Rs40 million for horticultural tasks. Officials have stated that if CDA funds are indeed being used, proper procurement procedures must be followed.
On Wednesday, CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa made a surprise visit to the nursery to inspect progress. He was informed that the 50-acre nursery is being redeveloped to feature modern flower shops and a café. Randhawa noted the initiative will eventually serve as a central hub for horticultural activities in the capital.
