CDA Launches Major Safety Drive in Islamabad to Cover Open Manholes and Repair Footpaths
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has launched an extensive campaign to address critical public safety concerns in Islamabad, focusing on covering open manholes, repairing damaged footpaths, and restoring kerb stones across the federal capital. This initiative follows direct directives from CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner Islamabad Muhammad Ali Randhawa, who emphasized the urgency of these measures to protect residents, especially children, from potential hazards.
Enhancing Public Safety and Civic Infrastructure
According to an official press release, the campaign aims to significantly enhance public safety by ensuring that all open gutters and manholes within Islamabad's limits are fitted with standard and secure covers. This effort applies universally, regardless of whether the infrastructure falls under the jurisdiction of the CDA, PTCL, Wapda, SNGPL, or any other organization. The chairman stated that the campaign will continue until all uncovered or unsafe manholes are properly addressed, highlighting a zero-tolerance policy toward negligence in this regard.
In addition to the manhole-covering drive, the initiative includes comprehensive work on restoring damaged footpaths and replacing broken kerb stones on roads and walkways. This aspect of the campaign is particularly focused on older sectors and commercial centers (markazs), aiming to improve pedestrian convenience while simultaneously enhancing the city's overall aesthetic appeal. By addressing these issues, the measures are expected to contribute to a safer, cleaner, and more organized urban environment for all residents.
Immediate Implementation and Public Involvement
Instructions have been issued to all relevant departments of the Capital Development Authority, the Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI), and the ICT administration to ensure the immediate implementation of this safety drive. Teams from these organizations have been actively working in the field since Wednesday, demonstrating a swift response to the chairman's directives.
Citizens are also being encouraged to play a role in this initiative by reporting any open or unsafe manholes or gutters to the authorities for prompt action. This collaborative approach aims to foster community involvement in maintaining public safety. Furthermore, CDA Chairman Randhawa has directed field teams to remain present on the ground to address public concerns and ensure the timely delivery of municipal services, reinforcing the administration's commitment to prioritizing resident safety.
The campaign is set to benefit both urban and rural areas of Islamabad, reflecting a holistic approach to improving civic facilities across the federal capital. As this drive progresses, it underscores the administration's dedication to creating a more secure and well-maintained environment for Islamabad's growing population.
