Pakistan’s National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology has voiced concern over significant delays in the Islamabad IT Park project, warning that a formal letter of displeasure may be issued to the construction company responsible.
The project, first announced in 2017 with construction commencing in August 2022, was scheduled for completion within 30 months, targeting February 18, 2025.
However, progress remains incomplete, with only 71% of construction and 57% of financial work achieved. The contractor has projected a new completion date of February 2026, despite the current contractual deadline of October 31, 2025.
The committee, chaired by MNA Syed Amin-ul-Haque, convened at the under-construction site for an on-ground inspection. Officials outlined that the IT Park spans 14.9 acres and includes two basements, a ground floor, and nine upper floors.
Planned facilities encompass offices, incubation and business support centers, R&D labs, a Level-III data center, an auditorium, and parking for 1,200 vehicles.
The project carries a total estimated cost of USD 88.8 million, with USD 76.3 million funded through a Korean EXIM Bank loan (EDCF Loan) and USD 12.5 million provided via Pakistan’s Public Sector Development Program (PSDP). Consultancy services are being provided by the Korean Sunjin Consortium, while construction is handled by Samhan Consortium.
Representatives from the Korean firm cited multiple factors contributing to delays, including heavy rains and flooding in 2022, currency exchange fluctuations, cash flow challenges in Korea, and contractor disputes that escalated to police involvement.
Chairman Haque emphasized that strict action would follow if the project is not completed by October 31, including investigations and issuance of a formal letter of displeasure.
The Ministry of IT also warned that future payments to the contractor would be halted if the firm fails to meet the contractual deadline.
Comments
See what people are discussing