Islamabad cricket stadium project to break ground near Margalla Hills

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is preparing to break ground on a new cricket stadium near Sector D-12 at the foothills of the Margalla Hills in Islamabad. The project, which aims to accommodate 35,000 spectators, is intended to serve as a venue for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2028.

A joint venture of Habib-ZKB-EA has submitted a bid of Rs 8.9 billion for the project. This includes Rs 5.8 billion for the three-tier stadium structure and Rs 3.1 billion for external works, such as three kilometers of connecting roads. While the initial project estimate was Rs 11.9 billion, the CDA is currently reviewing the reasonableness of the lower bid.

The proposed site is located in Zone III, an area where residential construction is restricted. However, the CDA maintains that sports and recreational facilities are permissible in this zone. Preparatory work, including the construction of an unpaved approach road, is expected to begin shortly.