The construction work on the long-delayed Model Jail project in Islamabad, pending since 2011, has gained momentum. Two barracks have been completed, while checkpoints and the central watchtower are nearing completion.
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, accompanied by Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, visited the under-construction facility in Sector H-16 of the federal capital on Tuesday. The minister reviewed the progress of ongoing construction activities and inspected various sections of the jail.
The minister directed that the first phase of the project must be completed within this year, emphasizing that round-the-clock efforts should be made to ensure timely completion. He stated that the initial phase will have the capacity to accommodate 1,500 inmates.
The interior minister further ordered the construction of two additional barracks within the next 90 days. He also instructed that the 34-bed hospital and the main kitchen within the jail be completed at the earliest. Additionally, the DIG Islamabad Police was directed to present a staffing plan for the Model Jail.
During the briefing, officials informed the minister that the project had originally been launched in 2011 but remained stalled for several years due to various delays.
The visit was attended by the Federal Secretary for Interior, DIG Islamabad Police, ADCG, CDA officials, as well as contractors and consultants associated with the project.