Government to Convert One Constitution Avenue Into Five-Star Hotel Following Cabinet Approval
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi says the federal cabinet's approval of the JIT report on the One Constitution Avenue project clears the way for the building to be restored to its originally approved purpose as a five-star hotel.
The federal government has announced plans to convert the One Constitution Avenue building in Islamabad into a five-star hotel, following cabinet approval of a joint investigation team's findings on the long-disputed project. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced the decision at a press conference in the capital on Wednesday, saying the building would be restored to its originally approved purpose.
Naqvi said the government intends to approach a major international hotel chain to operate the property and hopes to finalize an agreement soon. He added that efforts would be made to make the hotel operational within the next few months, citing a shortage of quality hotel facilities in Islamabad.
According to the minister, the cabinet's approval of the JIT report provides the legal basis for the government to take possession of the property. He noted that the Capital Development Authority already listed the building as being in its possession in official records, but said the cabinet decision formalized the position.
The CDA's member administration is expected to take immediate responsibility for the building's affairs, and the government has indicated it wants the property operating as a hotel as soon as possible. Naqvi also said compensation would be paid to individuals entitled to payments under the JIT's recommendations.
The One Constitution Avenue project has remained a subject of scrutiny for years, and the decision to repurpose the structure marks a significant step in resolving its status. The plan to bring in an international hotel operator is also expected to draw attention from the country's hospitality and real estate sectors, which have closely followed the project's development.
The government has not yet named the hotel chain it intends to partner with or provided a timeline for the agreement and renovation work. Further details are expected as the CDA takes over administrative control of the building and negotiations with potential operators move forward.
