CDA Revises Eligibility Criteria for Shaheen Chowk Underpass to Boost Competition
ISLAMABAD – In a move aimed at encouraging more participation and fair competition, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has revised the eligibility criteria for the highly anticipated Shaheen Chowk underpass project, following limited interest from contractors due to previously strict requirements.
The Rs. 1.3 billion infrastructure project initially received only one bid, prompting the CDA to reject the sole applicant’s technical proposal and revise the tender conditions to attract a wider pool of qualified construction firms.
Eased Work Experience Requirement
A CDA official revealed that the original requirement—which demanded that firms must have completed Rs. 1.5 billion worth of work within 100 days over the past five years—was too restrictive and deterred most bidders.
Under the updated criteria, construction firms now qualify if they have completed projects of similar value within 180 days during the same five-year period. This change will allow more companies to earn full marks in the technical evaluation based on their project experience.
“We’ve relaxed the work experience condition to open the door for more contractors. This will help ensure transparency and healthy competition,” said a CDA spokesperson.
New Tender Issued, Bids Due July 28
The revised tender has already been released, with a new submission deadline of July 28. The CDA will assess technical bids first and then proceed to financial evaluations before awarding the contract.
Interestingly, the lone bidder from the initial tender had already started moving machinery to the site for test bore work, anticipating a smooth contract award due to lack of competition. However, those assumptions were overturned after the CDA canceled the initial bidding round.
Project Overview and Background
The Shaheen Chowk underpass will be located at the intersection of Khayaban-e-Iqbal and 9th Avenue, with a completion timeline of 180 days. It forms part of CDA’s broader infrastructure improvement drive, which also includes projects like the Jinnah Square (formerly Serena Interchange) and the F-8 Interchange.
However, previous fast-track developments have faced criticism—Jinnah Square experienced drainage issues, while the F-8 Interchange has been scrutinized for design flaws. The CDA aims to avoid similar setbacks with improved planning and competitive bidding.
A Step Toward Better Urban Development
Officials believe the revised criteria will enhance competition, ensure transparency, and lead to higher-quality execution of the project. With broader participation now possible, the CDA hopes to engage top-performing firms for this critical infrastructure initiative.
Stay tuned for more updates on urban development and infrastructure progress in Islamabad.
