PM directs CDA to form unit for early execution of convention, expo project

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to establish a Project Management Unit for the early execution of the New Islamabad Convention, Exhibition and Expo Centre (NICEEC) project, according to details reported from a recent federal government meeting on the scheme.

During the meeting held last week, the prime minister was briefed on the bidding process and other components of the project. He instructed the CDA to set up the PMU and take steps to ensure the project begins early and is completed as soon as possible. The proposed facility is planned near the Bhara Kahu bypass in the Malpur area.

The project is expected to be launched ahead of next year’s SCO conference in Islamabad. One official, speaking about the timeline, said there was limited time available for execution.

"There is a race against time. If the project is started soon, it can be completed before the SCO. At least the convention centre can be completed within one year,"

The CDA is aiming to complete the convention centre portion within 11 months on a priority basis once work starts, while the remaining components would be finished in the following months. However, official planning documents say the full project is expected to take 18 months after commencement.

Project cost and scope

Under the PC-I, the total estimated cost of the project is Rs19.3 billion, including contingency, consultancy, utilities and landscaping. Of this, the main project cost is stated to be Rs16 billion, while more than Rs3 billion has been earmarked for contingency and consultancy-related expenses.

The covered area planned under the Rs16 billion scheme is 270,000 square feet. A source said the cost could rise if the covered area is increased in a revised design and could fall if the size is reduced. The project has been designed on Market Rate Schedule rates.

Bidding process under way

The CDA is scheduled to receive revised technical and financial bids from two technically qualified joint ventures on June 24. After the technical evaluation is completed, the revised financial bids will be opened for award of the contract.

The authority has approved the documentation of two joint ventures made up of local and international firms. One is led by China Construction Third Engineering Bureau along with Kasib Builders & Developers Pvt Ltd and Zeeruk International. The second is led by China Railway Sixth Group with Usmani International Associates and Osmani and Company.

A third joint venture comprising Matracon Pakistan Pvt Ltd, China First Metallurgical Group Co Ltd, Tong Yuan Design Group Co Ltd and Designmen Consulting Engineers was declared technically non-responsive by the CDA. The design submitted by the China Construction Third Engineering Bureau-led group has been approved, and both responsive joint ventures have been asked to submit technical and supplementary financial bids based on that approved design on June 24.

CDA officials said a non-responsive company can file a grievance before the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority after the technical evaluation process is completed.

Last year, the CDA Development Working Party approved the PC-I for the project at an estimated cost of Rs19.3 billion. A CDA working paper described the planned complex as a multifunctional venue for conventions, exhibitions, expos, trade fairs and cultural events, and said it is also intended to host the SCO summit expected in Islamabad in 2027. The document added that the centre is envisaged as a long-term revenue-generating asset for the CDA and the national economy through event hosting, rentals, service contracts and tourism-related activity in line with the Islamabad Master Plan.