The History of Islamabad: From Concept to Modern Capital
Nestled in the foothills of the Margalla Hills, Islamabad stands as a symbol of Pakistan’s vision for a modern, well-planned capital. Unlike many other cities, Islamabad’s story begins not with ancient roots, but with a carefully constructed plan to create a center of government and culture. In this blog, we’ll take a journey through the history of Islamabad, exploring its origins, early development, and how it transformed into the city we know today. Along the way, we’ll showcase some rare and old images of Islamabad that capture the city’s charm in its formative years.
Why Islamabad Was Chosen as Pakistan's Capital
After Pakistan gained independence in 1947, Karachi served as the capital. However, by the late 1950s, the country’s leaders recognized that Karachi’s coastal location and commercial atmosphere were not ideal for a capital. They sought a city that could embody Pakistan’s aspirations for unity and development.
Key Reasons for Relocating the Capital
- Strategic Location: Islamabad’s location in the north was considered safer and less vulnerable to attacks, particularly from the coastline.
- Centralization: A more central capital would symbolize unity, bringing people from different provinces together.
- Urban Planning Opportunity: The government wanted a city that could be meticulously planned, avoiding the overcrowding and haphazard growth of Karachi.
In 1959, the decision was finalized, and Pakistan’s president at the time, Ayub Khan, commissioned Greek architect and town planner, Constantinos Apostolou Doxiadis, to design Islamabad as a model city that would represent a new face of Pakistan.
Early Planning and Design of Islamabad
The Master Plan
Doxiadis envisioned Islamabad as a city that would blend modern functionality with Pakistan’s cultural heritage. His plan divided Islamabad into a grid pattern with different sectors (labeled as F, G, H, and I) to maintain an organized layout. Each sector was designed to have its own amenities, including schools, parks, and shopping areas.
The city’s layout emphasized:
- Green Spaces: A major portion of the city was allocated to parks and natural landscapes.
- Wide Roads and Boulevards: To avoid congestion, wide boulevards were incorporated.
- Proximity to Nature: With Margalla Hills providing a scenic backdrop, Islamabad was designed to maintain a close connection to nature.
Construction began in the early 1960s, and by 1966, Islamabad was officially inaugurated as Pakistan’s new capital.
Development Phases of Islamabad
1960s: The Foundational Years
The first phase involved setting up the core administrative structures. This included the Secretariat, the Supreme Court, and the Parliament House. Old images from this era show Islamabad’s minimalist yet striking architecture, with influences from modernist designs.
1970s-80s: Rapid Expansion
During the 1970s and 1980s, Islamabad began to expand beyond its initial administrative focus. Residential areas, commercial centers, and embassies were established. Rawal Lake, a man-made reservoir, was constructed to supply the city with water, and Faisal Mosque was completed in 1986, becoming an iconic landmark.
This period also saw the establishment of Blue Area, a major commercial hub where business and commerce thrived. Pictures from this era show a city in the making, with the natural beauty of the Margalla Hills contrasting with Islamabad’s structured urban landscape.
1990s: Cultural and Social Development
In the 1990s, Islamabad saw an influx of people from different parts of Pakistan, drawn to its tranquil environment and job opportunities. The city evolved with new restaurants, shopping centers, and cultural institutions. Lok Virsa Museum and Pakistan Monument were established to celebrate Pakistan’s diverse culture and history.
Iconic Landmarks in Islamabad’s History
Faisal Mosque
Designed by Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay, Faisal Mosque was funded by Saudi King Faisal bin Abdul-Aziz and remains one of the largest mosques in South Asia. It represents Islamabad’s blend of tradition and modernity, standing as a key symbol in the city’s history.
Daman-e-Koh
Daman-e-Koh, a scenic viewpoint in the Margalla Hills, offers panoramic views of Islamabad. It has long been a popular spot for tourists and locals, capturing the city’s greenery and urban layout.
Rawal Lake
Constructed in the 1960s, Rawal Lake is both a recreational site and an essential water reservoir for Islamabad. Old photographs capture its tranquil beauty, surrounded by hills and trees.
Islamabad Today: A Modern and Sustainable City
Today, Islamabad is recognized as one of the most beautiful and well-maintained cities in Pakistan, known for its greenery, cleanliness, and high quality of life. It’s a modern city with a peaceful vibe, housing some of Pakistan’s most prominent educational institutions, government buildings, and international organizations.
Environmental Initiatives
Islamabad’s administration has made significant strides in promoting sustainability. The city continues to prioritize green spaces, with initiatives to plant trees, protect the Margalla Hills, and maintain its parks and gardens. This makes Islamabad not only a historical city but also a leader in urban environmental efforts in Pakistan.
Population Growth and Infrastructure
The city has seen rapid population growth over recent decades. This growth has spurred the development of new sectors and expansion into neighboring areas like Bahria Town and DHA, which are modern residential projects catering to Islamabad’s expanding population.