The Prime Minister’s Office has requested additional information from the Capital Development Authority (CDA) regarding its request for a Rs. 3 billion interest-free loan to fund the renovation of the Jinnah Convention Centre (JCC) ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit.
The CDA initiated the renovation under its emergency clause, bypassing the usual competitive bidding process. The upgraded JCC was handed over to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in time for the SCO summit, set for October 15-16. Renovation work included major upgrades to the main hall, committee rooms, corridors, and new toilet facilities. The refurbishment also involved new flooring, paint, glasswork, furniture, and carpets. A CDA official confirmed that the project was completed to international standards, ensuring the venue’s readiness for both national and international events.
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Although the exact total expenditure is still under calculation, the Rs. 3 billion loan request is intended to cover civil and electrical repairs, along with other associated works. In its request, the Prime Minister’s Office has asked for clarity on the loan’s spending plan, the process for the loan request, and details about a previously sanctioned Rs. 5 billion loan from 2015-16. Additionally, the PM’s Office suggested exploring alternatives such as public-private partnerships to lessen the strain on public finances. The CDA is expected to provide the requested details before the loan is considered for approval.
