Raja Bazaar pedestrian street work delay from Fawara Chowk to Hamilton Road remains incomplete even after one year, creating daily problems for traders and shoppers in Rawalpindi.
The local administration closed the busy road, commonly known as Dingi Khoi, to convert it into a pedestrian-only street at a cost of Rs 450 million. Authorities promised smooth execution, but slow progress has turned the project into a source of frustration for the city’s oldest commercial hub.
Slow underground cable work disrupts business and access
Officials started shifting electricity and PTCL cables underground, but the work has moved at a very slow pace. Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi had set December 30 as the completion deadline. Authorities later extended it to January 30, yet visible progress remains limited.
The dug-up road makes walking difficult and restricts access to shops. Traders say customers now avoid Raja Bazaar street due to dust, congestion, and lack of parking.
Visitors struggle with parking and shopping access
Shoppers visiting Mughal Sarai, Namak Mandi, and Madina Market report serious difficulties. Parking at Fawara Chowk remains overcrowded, forcing visitors to walk long distances.
Many buyers choose other markets despite higher prices. They say the inconvenience outweighs the savings. Wholesale traders also complain that delivery vehicles cannot load or unload goods easily.
Read more: 80% work on Pindi’s Mall Road underpasses and flyover on Adiala Road completed
RMC blames Iesco for project delays
Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation (RMC) officials are of the view that the delay stems from Iesco’s failure to complete underground electricity work. Municipal Officer Raffaqat Gondal said Iesco may finish its work by next month.
Once Iesco hands over the road, RMC plans to start construction of roads, footpaths, drains, and beautification, which may take another two to three months.
As per RMC, Rs 170 million went to Iesco for electricity cables, Rs 50 million to WASA for water lines, and Rs 250 million is allocated for road construction and beautification.
Traders warn of rising losses and broken promises
The Rawalpindi Traders Association keep on saying that the shopkeepers continue to suffer financial losses. President Sharjeel Mir said traders never supported the pedestrian street project and now face dust, access issues, and declining sales.
He warned that prolonged delays could permanently damage business activity in Raja Bazaar if authorities fail to complete the project quickly.
1 comment
[…] Read more: Markets in Rawalpindi to become no-vehicle zones with dedicated cycle tracks […]