The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is moving forward with its plan to convert a proposed ladies club in Sector G-10 into an Information Technology (IT) Park, holding an “open house” on the premises to showcase its vision for a dedicated IT space in the federal capital.
The decision to repurpose the building into an IT park has faced criticism from women in the capital, who argue that there is already limited space for women in the city, and the proposed club was intended to address this issue. However, the CDA has not provided any updates regarding the fate of the facility initially planned for women.
“The women have been deprived of the proposed club before its inception,” said Bushra Bibi, a resident of Sector G-7, expressing her concern over the lack of such facilities for women in Islamabad. The club building’s construction was completed in 2010 but remained abandoned by the CDA for over a decade, reportedly due to funding constraints. Last year, the CDA board decided to repurpose the building for the technology park instead of the women’s club.
In response to women’s concerns, the CDA spokesperson stated that women would be accommodated at the F-9 Citizen Club, also known as the Gandhara Club.
He further explained that G-10 was an ideal location for the tech park due to its proximity to educational institutions, IT firms, and the telecom tower.
Regarding the availability of exclusive space for women, the spokesperson clarified that women would be provided facilities at the Gandhara Club (F-9 club), which would be open to both men and women. When asked if the facility would be exclusively for women, he replied, “No, it will be for all.”
Last year, the CDA announced its intention to make the citizen club functional as soon as possible. “We have the F-9 Citizen Club building, so we will set up a club in that building where both male and female members will be provided with the best facilities,” the CDA had stated.
The open house event, jointly hosted by the CDA and the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), aimed to unveil their visionary plans for an IT park in Islamabad. Key stakeholders from the IT industry attended the event, which highlighted the pivotal role of IT parks in driving innovation, economic growth, and technological advancement in the region.
CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa, along with representatives from various IT organizations, shared insights and perspectives on the significance and potential of the proposed park. The event emphasized the commitment of the authorities to collaborate with industry stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and investors to ensure the successful establishment and development of the IT park.
The CDA chairman reiterated the dedication of the authorities to provide the necessary infrastructure and regulatory support to make the IT park a nucleus of innovation, creativity, and economic prosperity. He stressed the importance of creating a dedicated space for technology-based businesses, startups, and professionals to collaborate, innovate, and flourish.
Additionally, a CDA member emphasized that the proposed IT park in Islamabad was a strategic initiative that would attract investment, create job opportunities, promote research and development, and contribute to Pakistan’s digital transformation.
The PSEB director highlighted the pivotal role of such centers in enhancing the country’s IT exports, global competitiveness, and supporting the growth of the industry.
The open house included site discussions and visits, providing attendees with insights into the vision, objectives, and timeline for the IT park project. Participants engaged with industry experts, government officials, and potential collaborators, exchanging ideas and exploring partnership opportunities.
