In a major step toward tackling Rawalpindi’s persistent traffic congestion, construction work on two high-profile road infrastructure projects is nearing completion. According to officials, over 80% of the work has been finished, with a firm completion deadline of May 31 set by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.
The projects, collectively valued at more than Rs. 6.5 billion, include the Nawaz Sharif Flyover at Khawaja Corporation Chowk on Adiala Road and the dual underpass system on Mall Road, with one underpass at TM Chowk and the other at Mall Plaza Chowk.
A Step Towards a Signal-Free Rawalpindi
The Nawaz Sharif Flyover, a Rs. 2.3 billion initiative, is being executed under the supervision of the Communication and Works (C&W) Department, with construction by the Frontier Works Organization (FWO) and design and consultancy services provided by Nespak. This flyover aims to decongest the bottleneck at Khawaja Corporation Chowk, a notorious traffic jam site for commuters traveling to and from Adiala Road.
Meanwhile, the Mall Road Underpasses Project, costing Rs. 4.39 billion, promises a transformative impact on one of the busiest routes in Rawalpindi. The underpasses at TM Chowk and Mall Plaza Chowk will eliminate traffic signals and reduce long waiting times for vehicles. The project also includes a new underground pedestrian walkway near the Medicine Market, enhancing pedestrian safety and accessibility in the area.
24/7 Work to Meet the Deadline
Under the command of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, work teams are operating around the clock to make certain that the May 31 deadline is met. Officials keep on believing that once completed, these projects will significantly reduce travel times and improve the daily commute for thousands of residents.
What’s Next for Rawalpindi’s Roads?
Looking ahead, the C&W Department is already planning further improvements. New flyovers and underpasses are being considered for other high-traffic intersections such as Kacheri Chowk, Qasim Market Chowk, and Chairing Cross Chowk.
These future developments are part of a broader vision to create a signal-free corridor from Kacheri Chowk to the motorway junction, further modernizing Rawalpindi’s road infrastructure and bringing long-term relief to the city’s traffic woes.