Construction expected to take two years, easing Rawalpindi Stadium congestion

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a tender for the construction of a new cricket stadium in Islamabad, marking the long-awaited project’s move into the implementation phase.

Stadium Features and Capacity

The stadium is projected to cost approximately Rs. 8 billion (800 crore) and is designed based on the Dubai International Stadium. It will be located near Sector D-12, at the foothills of the Margalla Hills, with a seating capacity of roughly 32,000 spectators.

Plans also include a 7-star hotel adjacent to the stadium to accommodate teams, officials, and VIPs on-site. This feature aims to reduce match-day traffic and minimize security convoys traveling from city hotels to the stadium.

Parking and Accessibility

A large parking facility capable of holding about 10,000 vehicles will be situated approximately one kilometer from the stadium. Shuttle services will operate on match days to manage heavy traffic and ensure smooth access for spectators.

Joint Venture and Revenue Sharing

The project is a joint venture between the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and the PCB. The CDA will lease around 280 kanals of land on a long-term basis, with a proposed revenue-sharing arrangement of 70:30 in favor of PCB.

Timeline and Impact

Once the tender is awarded, construction is expected to take approximately two years. The new stadium will allow Islamabad to regularly host top-tier international cricket, reducing dependence on the centrally located Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, which has long caused traffic congestion during major series.