CDA, PCB Agree To Set Up International Cricket Stadium At Margalla Foothills

In a significant development, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and a representative from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have agreed in principle to construct a cricket stadium in Islamabad. According to sources within the CDA, Shakil Shaikh, a member of the PCB management committee, visited the CDA headquarters and held a productive meeting with Chairman Noorul Amin Mengal. Both parties have agreed in principle to construct the cricket stadium in the vicinity of D-12, situated in the foothills of Margalls.

During the meeting, the CDA chairman informed the PCB representative that a designated area of 25 acres has been allocated for the construction of the cricket stadium. It has been decided that a memorandum of understanding (MoU) will be prepared and signed by both parties in the near future. An official from the CDA revealed that under the terms of the MoU, the PCB will be responsible for constructing the stadium, while the CDA will provide the land. Both sides will then share the revenue generated by the stadium, with the CDA considering a claim for 30% revenue share, while the PCB would receive the remaining 70%.

When contacted for comments, the CDA chairman stated that the meeting with the PCB official was preliminary in nature and that another meeting would be held soon to finalize the details and sign the MoU. The chairman also mentioned that the allocated land is unencumbered and strategically located in the foothills of Margallas, adding that the construction of the stadium will enhance the beauty of Islamabad.

Addressing concerns about the land’s zoning status, the CDA chairman clarified that even if the land falls within Zone III, there are no restrictions on constructing sports facilities in that area. He referred to the ICT Zoning Regulations of 1992, which allow for the establishment of recreational facilities, including sports stadiums, in the specified zone. The chairman further noted that existing sports facilities, such as the sports complex near Aabpara, are already situated in Zone III.

This development marks another attempt by the CDA and PCB to collaborate on a stadium project. A previous initiative for a stadium in Shakarparian was halted by the Supreme Court. In 1960, Doxiadis Associates, a Greek firm, included a sports center in Shakarparian in the master plan for Islamabad. The government subsequently constructed a sports complex, a museum, Lok Virsa, a golf course, and Islamabad Club in the area. However, in 1979, a government notification integrated the area into the national park and Zone III, thereby prohibiting the development of new facilities. Despite this, the governments that followed did not pursue any amendments to the 1979 notification, leading to unregulated construction in the region.

The agreement between the CDA and PCB for the construction of a cricket stadium signifies a positive step towards providing a dedicated sports facility in Islamabad. This development is expected to contribute to the growth of cricket in the region and offer a venue for national and international cricket matches, enhancing the sports landscape of the capital city.

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