The Rawalpindi Ring Road (RRR) project has reached a major milestone with 80% of construction now finished. Following recent progress, officials have set the first week of May 2026 as the new date for the project’s grand inauguration. This updated timeline comes as the project enters its final phase of asphalt paving and structural work.
Budget Adjustments and Timeline Changes
The total cost of the 38.3-kilometer highway has risen to Rs 53 billion. This is a significant increase from earlier estimates of approximately Rs33 billion. Officials attribute the rise to high inflation and a major redesign of the Thalian Interchange.
The Thalian Interchange was expanded to handle much higher traffic volumes than originally expected. While this redesign improved the project’s capacity, it also shifted the completion date from December 2025 to the spring of 2026. The Rawalpindi Commissioner has now directed all teams to complete beautification and road carpeting by April 30 to ensure the May opening.
Read more: Rawalpindi Ring Road cost rises to Rs 50 billion, completion deadline pushed to March 2026
Infrastructure Milestones
Construction work is moving rapidly across the main track. Asphalt carpeting is already complete on a 22-kilometer stretch of the road. On the structural side, 90% of the work is finished.
A key highlight of the project is the Soan River Bridge. At 720 meters long, it is now the longest bridge in Pakistan. All girders have been installed, and the bridge is fully complete. Once operational, the six-lane highway will provide a vital link between Banth Mor (GT Road) and the Thalian Interchange on the M-2 Motorway.
Economic and Environmental Impact
The Punjab government is looking beyond just transportation. New commercial zones have been approved along the Ring Road corridor. These zones will allow for the construction of buildings between 3 and 10 stories high, as well as the development of new industrial areas.
To balance this urban growth, the project includes a significant environmental plan. Authorities intend to plant 300,000 trees along the route. This “Green Ring” initiative aims to reduce pollution and improve the aesthetic appeal of the city’s new bypass.