Islamabad: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has announced that it will begin using advanced satellite technology to strengthen land management and improve transparency in Islamabad’s urban planning processes. The initiative is being undertaken in collaboration with the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO).
The development was discussed during a meeting at CDA Headquarters on Friday, chaired by Muhammad Ali Randhawa, Chairman CDA and Chief Commissioner Islamabad. Representatives from SUPARCO briefed officials on the use of satellite imagery and data-sharing mechanisms already available under an existing memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two organisations.
According to officials, the technology will help identify land-related irregularities, monitor illegal construction activities, and support more efficient and accountable planning across the federal capital. Randhawa said the partnership represents “a significant step towards smart and sustainable urban development,” adding that satellite data would make planning “more effective, transparent, and accountable.”
The meeting also reviewed progress in several of Islamabad’s new residential sectors. Development work in Sector C-14 has entered its final stages, while construction in Sectors C-15 and I-12 is advancing steadily. In E-12, where progress had been stalled for years, work has now resumed in multiple sub-sectors.
Randhawa directed that all development works be completed quickly and to high standards, with full provision of civic amenities. He said the possession of developed plots would be ensured soon, reaffirming that reviving long-delayed sectors remains a top priority for the CDA.
Senior officials including Member Planning and Design Dr Khalid Hafiz, Member Environment Esfandyar Baloch, Deputy Commissioner Islamabad Irfan Nawaz Memon, and a technical team from SUPARCO attended the session.
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