Islamabad’s proposed cricket stadium near Sector D-12 is expected to accommodate more than 35,000 spectators, according to the Capital Development Authority (CDA). The project is set to move forward after the CDA and the construction contractor resolved a dispute over the bid rate.
The stadium will feature a three-tier structure standing more than 25 metres tall at the foothills of the Margalla Hills. The project is expected to strengthen Islamabad’s sports infrastructure and could provide a venue for international cricket matches.
The approach road connecting Margalla Road to the proposed site has already been completed. With the rate dispute settled, construction work is expected to move ahead in the coming days.
Stadium Project to Be Completed in Two Phases
The CDA plans to construct the stadium in two phases. The first phase will focus on building the stadium structure and developing approximately three kilometres of roads around the site.
The second phase will include landscaping, electrical work and preparation of the playing field. This will involve developing the cricket pitches and other facilities needed to make the venue operational.
The phased approach will allow the main structure and road infrastructure to be developed before the remaining facilities are completed.
Once finished, the stadium is expected to provide seating for more than 35,000 spectators. Its location near the Margalla Hills will also make it a prominent addition to the capital’s sports facilities.
Stadium Could Host Women’s T20 World Cup Matches
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) hopes to make the stadium fully operational before the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2028.
PCB officials have indicated that they want to host some matches of the tournament at the new venue. However, the stadium’s readiness and its eventual role in the tournament will depend on construction progress and the necessary arrangements.
If completed on schedule, the stadium could give Islamabad a larger venue for international cricket and other major sporting events.
The project is also expected to improve the city’s capacity to host spectators, players and visiting teams during major tournaments.
Why Was Sector D-12 Selected?
The CDA selected the site near Sector D-12 after considering another location near Malpur in Zone I.
The selected site falls within Zone III, where construction is generally restricted and local landowners cannot build houses on their land. However, the CDA maintains that sports and recreational facilities are permitted in the area and that the proposed stadium falls within the allowed category.
The location and permitted use of the land are important aspects of the project because development restrictions apply in parts of Islamabad.
The CDA’s position is that the stadium qualifies as an allowable sports facility under the relevant rules.
Previous Stadium Project at Shakarparian Was Abandoned
Islamabad’s earlier stadium project at Shakarparian was abandoned after the Supreme Court issued directions concerning the development.
The PCB had begun construction on land provided by the CDA, but the project did not proceed as planned.
The new arrangement is different because the CDA itself will build the stadium rather than leaving the construction project to the PCB. The civic agency is responsible for moving the development forward.
The project had also faced a delay because of a disagreement between the CDA and the construction firm over the quoted bid rate.
Rs. 400 Million Rebate Settles Bid Dispute
The stadium’s initial project cost estimate, known as the PC-I, was Rs. 11.9 billion. The Habib-ZKB-EA joint venture submitted the lowest bid at Rs. 8.9 billion.
Before the groundbreaking, the CDA reportedly sought a rebate from the contractor. The construction firm argued that it had submitted its bid in March and that diesel, petrol and other costs had increased since then.
According to sources, the two sides have now agreed to a rebate of Rs. 400 million.
After this reduction, the bid amount would stand at approximately Rs. 8.5 billion, based on the reported figures. The final project expenditure may depend on the applicable contract terms and any subsequent adjustments.
With the rate dispute resolved and the approach road completed, the CDA expects the stadium project to move forward soon. The main objective is to develop a modern cricket venue that can serve Islamabad and potentially host matches during the 2028 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
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