The Islamabad Margalla Avenue sculpture, installed at the junction of Margalla Avenue and Iran Avenue in July 2025, removed following widespread criticism. The structure, featuring two large golden hands holding illuminated globe-shaped spheres, placed without approval from the Capital Development Authority (CDA).
Installed as part of a corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative by private developer Faisal Hills, the Islamabad’s Margalla Avenue sculpture aimed to serve as a civic landmark. It positioned on the newly upgraded 33-kilometer, six-lane Margalla Avenue, which connects Islamabad’s northern sectors to the Grand Trunk Road.
The sculpture sparked immediate public reaction. Social media users raised concerns about its symbolism, design, and placement in a prominent area. Many criticized it as lacking clarity and questioned the decision-making behind the installation. Some interpreted it as representing Pakistan’s global aspirations, while others viewed it as confusing or inappropriate.
After public pressure mounted, journalist Nadia Mirza reported that the sculpture covered with cloth and machinery brought in for dismantling. CDA ordered its removal on July 14, 2025, citing that it installed without formal authorization.
The incident prompted CDA to review its approval processes for public art installations and raised broader questions about oversight, urban planning, and the role of community input in civic design. The short-lived Islamabad Margalla Avenue sculpture has since become a case study in public space management and policy enforcement.
.){kind=link}