As 2025 draws to a close, several long-awaited mega development projects in Rawalpindi remain stalled, raising concerns among residents about planning delays and unmet promises. With just two weeks left in the year, construction has yet to commence on various critical projects such as the Lai (Leh) Expressway and Flood Channel Project and the Children’s Hospital, despite repeated announcements over the past few years.
Some Progress on Road Infrastructure
While major flagship projects simply flopped or fizzled, the Punjab government had worked tirelessly to complete three important road infrastructure schemes in 2025, offering some relief to the travelers. These include
- Nawaz Sharif Flyover at Khawaja Corporation Chowk on Adiala Road
- Underpasses at TM Chowk and GPO Chowk on Mall Road
Furthermore, residents welcomed the launch of Rawalpindi’s electric bus service, a move considered as a step toward
- Cleaner
- More affordable urban transport
Kutchery Chowk Project Moves Forward
One of the largest ongoing projects, the Kutchery Chowk mega project, continues to progress and is expected to be completed by March 2026. Construction work began in November 2025, and the project includes three underpasses designed to reduce the traffic blockage at one of the city’s busiest intersections.
Despite initial delays, authorities remain optimistic that the project will be delivered within the revised timeline.
What’s Coming in the New Year
Looking ahead to 2026, the Punjab government plans to launch several new infrastructure projects across Rawalpindi. These include underpasses at
- Race Course Chowk
- Qabristan Chowk
- Charing Cross Chowk on Peshawar Road
- New flyover at Ammar Shaheed Chowk
Read more: City and cantonment roads in Rawalpindi set for massive Rs 35.28 billion upgrade
Officials keep on estimating that road infrastructure projects worth more than Rs30 billion will be completed next year, significantly improving traffic flow and connectivity.
Ring Road Nearing Completion
One of the most promising developments is the Rs 50 billion Rawalpindi Ring Road, which has reached 75 percent completion.
Authorities keep on expecting the project to be finalized by the last week of March 2026, potentially changing the course of traffic flow by diverting heavy and through traffic away from the city center.
Additionally, plans have been approved to widen of Murree Road from Liaquat Bagh to Chandni Chowk and to establish an underpass at Ninth Avenue Chowk on IJP Road.
Health Sector Projects Still Stalled
Indeed, various progress has been seen in road development, healthcare projects have seen little movement. The conversion of the Mother and Child Hospital into a 400-bed Children’s Hospital remains stuck at the PC-I preparation stage.
Similarly, the Rawalpindi Institute of Urology and Kidney Transplant has yet to launch kidney and liver transplant services, although emergency OPD and dialysis facilities are currently operational under PKLI Rawalpindi.
For many residents, the mixed picture of progress and delay display the strong requirement for
- Stronger planning
- Faster execution
- Clearer accountability in Rawalpindi’s development agenda