Islamabad’s historic Siraj Covered Market in Sector G-6 may finally be revived after nearly two decades, following progress in discussions between the Capital Development Authority (CDA), the leaseholder and local residents. According to a report published by Dawn on November 10, 2026, the parties have reached near agreement on a revised building design featuring a ground floor and one upper storey, along with a lower ground floor and basement parking.
Originally designed by a British architect and constructed by CDA as a single-storey market, the property was leased to Siraj in 1966. In 2007, CDA revised the building regulations, allowing a much larger structure with ground-plus-three floors, full ground coverage and two basements. The original market was subsequently demolished by the new leaseholder.
However, residents challenged the changes in the Supreme Court, which stopped CDA from implementing the revised bylaws. As a result, the 8,670-square-yard plot in G-6/3 has remained vacant, depriving nearby residents of an important shopping facility for everyday necessities.
Last year, CDA's planning wing proposed a seven-to-eight-storey commercial building with 50% ground coverage. However, the CDA board directed that the revised bylaws should undergo public consultation and legal review before approval. The latest proposal reflects a smaller development plan that has received considerable support from residents.
The property's original 30-year lease was extended for another term until October 2026. A CDA official confirmed that the revised proposal will now be presented to the CDA board for final approval, potentially paving the way for the long-awaited revival of the historic G-6 Covered Market.
