Diplomats concerned over proposed relocation of boundary walls, removal of green belts, shady trees
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is all set to launch an ambitious infrastructure modernization project inside Islamabad’s Diplomatic Enclave, aimed at widening the existing single-lane internal roads into dual three-lane carriageways, redesigning security boundaries, and developing new access routes, cycling tracks and modern entry gates.
The details of the proposed project were shared during a recent briefing arranged by a consultant for members of the diplomatic community, where visual presentations and maps outlined extensive redesign plans for the highly secured enclave, including the reconstruction of major internal roads, new roundabouts, and expansion of the enclave toward its extended zones.
According to officials, the project seeks to upgrade the enclave’s internal road network by converting the existing one-way single-lane roads into three-lane roads on each side in an effort to improve traffic flow, strengthen security perimeters, and prepare the area for the accommodation of additional foreign missions in the future.
The plan has triggered concerns among several diplomats who attended the briefing.
A number of diplomats, while talking to Pakistan Observer, questioned both the necessity and the scale of the proposed expansion, saying the roads inside the Diplomatic Enclave already remain largely empty throughout the day, with only limited vehicular movement during morning and evening hours.
A senior diplomat from a European mission, requesting anonymity, said the project appeared excessive considering the enclave’s current traffic situation.
“The enclave is already one of the most secure and least congested zones in the capital. Turning the existing roads into six-lane corridors may make the area look even more deserted while consuming enormous financial and environmental resources,” the diplomat remarked.
Diplomatic sources also expressed concerns that the widening of roads may affect the enclave’s longstanding green identity, including its mature shady trees, landscaped green belts and open spaces that have long distinguished the diplomatic district.
According to sources familiar with the project, execution of the plan may require the partial demolition or relocation of boundary walls of several embassies to accommodate the expanded road infrastructure.
Interestingly, sources noted that the project is not expected to affect the sprawling compound of the United States Embassy, one of the largest diplomatic complexes inside the enclave, which houses multiple offices and sections over a vast secured area.
When contacted, a CDA official confirmed that the briefing had been organized for diplomats regarding the road expansion and modernization project.
The official, however, dismissed concerns about environmental damage, assuring that the authority would take all necessary measures to preserve the enclave’s greenery and aesthetic appeal.
“There will be no major impact on the beauty, landscape or environmental character of the Diplomatic Enclave. The project is being designed with sustainability and security in mind,” the official said.
