ISLAMABAD: The newly appointed Chief Commissioner Islamabad and Chairman of the Capital Development Authority (CDA), Lt. (R) Sohail Ashraf, has reaffirmed his firm commitment to addressing the legitimate concerns of the business community and residents on a priority basis, while introducing progressive reforms to facilitate trade and economic activity in the federal capital.
He expressed these views during a meeting with a high-level delegation of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), led by its President Sardar Tahir Mehmood. The delegation called on him to extend felicitations on his assumption of office and to deliberate on key issues confronting the business sector.
Welcoming the delegation, the CDA Chairman assured that concerted efforts would be undertaken to enhance the ease of doing business, modernize urban infrastructure, and implement forward-looking policies aimed at transforming Islamabad into a dynamic, investment-friendly metropolis. He underscored that CDA is actively pursuing comprehensive urban planning initiatives to elevate the skyline of commercial districts, enhance the city’s aesthetic appeal, and position Islamabad as a competitive regional economic hub.
On the occasion, the ICCI delegation presented a bouquet to the Chairman as a gesture of goodwill and expressed confidence in his leadership and vision.
The delegation comprised prominent business leaders, including Chairman ICCI Founder Group Tariq Sadiq, former President Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) and ICCI Abdul Rauf Allam, Senior Vice President Tahir Ayub, Vice President Irfan Chaudhry, and Chairman ICCI Real Estate Committee Israr ul Haq Mishwani.
Speaking on the occasion, Sardar Tahir Mehmood apprised the CDA Chairman of the critical challenges confronting the business community, particularly those related to regulatory frameworks, urban planning limitations, and infrastructure bottlenecks. He emphasized that Islamabad, as the federal capital, possesses immense potential to emerge as a leading regional economic hub, provided that enabling and business-friendly policies are effectively implemented.
He specifically highlighted the need for rationalization of the Floor Area Ratio (FAR), noting that aligning it with contemporary urban standards would encourage vertical development, optimize land utilization, and unlock billions of rupees in new investment across the real estate and commercial sectors. He further stressed the urgent need for the upgradation of the Fruit and Vegetable Market, a vital supply chain, serving the twin cities and adjoining regions.
Both sides agreed to maintain close coordination and institutional synergy to resolve longstanding issues and to work collaboratively towards transforming Islamabad into a model capital city, featuring world-class commercial zones, efficient civic services, and a vibrant, thriving business environment.
