The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) has sent a proposal to the Planning Department to build an underpass linking Double Road with 9th Avenue. The project is estimated to cost Rs 800 million.
RDA Director General Kinza Murtaza said the connection is badly needed and the proposal has been submitted for approval. She explained that the underpass is important for two main reasons.
First, the cricket stadium on Double Road creates serious security and traffic issues during matches. Roads often have to be closed to move teams safely, which causes major disruption.
Second, the underpass will serve as an alternative route between Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Once completed, it will make travel signal-free from Chandni Chowk to Islamabad, helping reduce traffic congestion at Faizabad.
According to the RDA, the underpass will be 1,600 feet long, 24 feet wide, and 16 feet high. Roads on both sides will also be rebuilt, and the authority plans to improve other roads under its control.
The RDA said construction will begin as soon as the project is approved and funds are released.
Officials also said the RDA is considering involving the Capital Development Authority (CDA) so the cost can be shared. Since part of the road falls under CDA control, an NOC will be required. Earlier plans for this connection were approved in 2017, but the project stalled after a change in government in 2018.