Chairman CDA Holds Key Meeting with ADB Delegation on Smog Reduction and Eco-Friendly Projects

Date: Dec 02, 2025

ISLAMABAD: December 1, 2025: Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, held a meeting with a delegation from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Monday at the CDA Headquarters to review initiatives related to smog mitigation, environmental protection, and air quality improvement in the Federal Capital. The ADB delegation included Senior Financial Sector Economist Andrew McCartney and members of the Bank’s urban team. The meeting discussed measures for reducing smog, eliminating air pollution, and strengthening environmental sustainability in Islamabad. Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa said that environmental protection—including the reduction of smog and air pollution—remains among the top priorities of the Authority. Work is underway on various eco-friendly projects as well as policy reforms to support these goals. He highlighted that the CDA has adopted the regulations of the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (NECA) in its Electric Vehicle (EV) policy. Comprehensive initiatives have been launched to promote electric vehicles and establish charging stations across Islamabad. He added that the Authority has introduced 160 environment-friendly electric feeder buses using its own resources. Furthermore, vehicle carbon emission testing is being conducted to control transport-related pollution, and efforts are underway to install additional monitoring stations to ensure accurate Air Quality Index (AQI) reporting. The Chairman said that a modern solid waste management project is being planned to address garbage-related pollution in the city. A feasibility study for establishing a scientific landfill site in Islamabad is being initiated. He further noted that the CDA is exploring opportunities to implement carbon credit–generating projects in Islamabad and that ADB’s technical support could facilitate green financing mechanisms for these initiatives. The ADB delegation reaffirmed that the Bank will complete its consultation process and extend technical support for multiple eco-friendly initiatives. They also noted that ADB is already providing technical assistance for Islamabad’s first Transport Master Plan and the Inter-City Bus Terminals project. Both sides agreed to further strengthen cooperation on smog mitigation, air quality improvement, and broader environmental protection efforts. Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa emphasized that these measures aim to curb air pollution and ensure a healthier, high-quality living environment for citizens. He added that enhanced collaboration between ADB and CDA will not only elevate Islamabad’s environmental standards but also position the capital as a leading model of sustainable development in Pakistan.