A major transformation is under process in Rawalpindi as multiple infrastructure projects are going to be completed soon. It is paving the way for a signal-free corridor from Adiala Road to Motorway Chowk. These long-awaited developments are anticipated to significantly minimize traffic congestion in one of the busiest parts of the city.
The Punjab government has initiated a survey for a signal-free corridor along The Mall, stretching from Katcheri Chowk to Motorway Chowk. The project is meant to change the congested travel landscape of Pindi. The project is led by the Housing and Urban Development Department, aims to significantly reduce traffic congestion and improve travel efficiency for thousands of commuters daily.
Survey Begins; Construction to Be Phased
According to a senior official, the project is being approached in phases to avoid causing disruption to public movement. While funds have already been allocated, work on all parts of the corridor won’t begin simultaneously.
“We will launch the first phase only after the GPO Underpass on The Mall is completed,” the official said.
Flyovers and Underpasses Completed
The Nawaz Sharif Flyover, located at Khawaja Corporation Chowk on Adiala Road, is finally completed. Constructed at Rs 2.3 billion, the project was to be inaugurated by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on June 30, but now it has been postponed.
On the same day, CM Maryam Nawaz is also likely to inaugurate:
• Two underpasses on Mall Road — at Flashman Hotel Chowk and Mall Plaza Chowk
• An underground pedestrian walkway near AFIC
These projects, worth Rs 4.388 billion, are being completed by the Communications and Works (C&W) Department of Punjab.
Infrastructure Overview: Underpasses and Flyovers
The signal-free corridor will add the construction of four underpasses and two major flyovers. Here’s a breakdown of the planned infrastructure and financial allocations for FY 2025–26:
Read more: Nawaz Sharif Flyover on Adiala Road opened for traffic with unfinished service roads
• Katcheri Chowk Underpass & Widening:
o Total Cost: Rs 4.45 billion
o Current Allocation: Rs 160 million
• Race Course Underpass:
o Total Cost: Rs 2.6 billion
• Chairing Cross Underpass:
o Total Cost: Rs 1.5 billion
o Current Allocation: Rs 54 million
• Army Graveyard Chowk Underpass:
o Total Cost: Rs 1.9 billion
o Current Allocation: Rs 68 million
• Jinnah Park Flyover:
o Total Cost: Rs 4.15 billion
o Current Allocation: Rs 149 million
• Ammar Chowk Flyover:
o Total Cost: Rs 3.45 billion
o Current Allocation: Rs 124 million
Next Steps: Feasibility and Planning
The department plans to hire consultants to begin feasibility studies and prepare PC-I documentation. Only after this groundwork is complete will construction officially begin.
Impact associated with Signal-Free Corridor
• Improved security: Travel time via the major Rawalpindi corridors will drop significantly.
• Efficient transportation: Underpasses and flyovers are assisting in easing bottlenecks.
• Enhanced safety: Fewer intersections and traffic will lead to the reduction of accident risks.
• Financial growth: Better connectivity will boost commercial activity along The Mall.
• Step-by-step execution: It will assist in reducing public disruption during construction.
This signal-free corridor is considered to be a groundbreaking infrastructure breakthrough for Rawalpindi, promising smoother, speedier, and risk-free travel experience for all.
Upcoming Construction During School Holidays
To take advantage of the summer break, additional construction will begin at major bottlenecks including:
• Kachehri Chowk (with 2 flyovers and 3 underpasses) — cost: Rs. 8.5 billion
• Underpasses at Qasim Market, Race Course Chowk, and Charing Cross
The Rawalpindi Cantonment Board (RCB) has already been given orders to relocate underground utilities such as
- Gas lines
- Water supply
- Electricity
- Sewerage to prepare for construction.
With the completion of these projects, including the already operational Golra Mor underpass, the corridor from Adiala Road to Motorway Chowk is expected to be completely signal-free, ensuring smooth flow of traffic and reduced travel time.
Way Forward to Boost Education Sector in Rawalpindi
The Punjab Education Department has released Rs 464.5 million for the operational expenses of public schools across the Rawalpindi Division.
Province-wide, a total of Rs 4.58 billion has been released for the final quarter of the fiscal year to cover:
• Utility bills
• Basic operational costs for over 43,000 public schools, including
- Primary
- Middle
- High
- Higher secondary institutions.
These steps are meant to make sure schools remain fully functional and ready to welcome the students after the vacations.