The development of Rawalpindi’s much-awaited signal-free corridor project continues at a steady pace, bringing the city one step closer to improved traffic flow and reduced travel time.
According to a detailed briefing presented during a progress review meeting chaired by Commissioner Rawalpindi, Engineer Aamir Khattak, nearly 80% of the piling work on the Jinnah Park flyover has now been successfully completed. Work on the underpass located at the same site has also reached the 10% mark.
During the meeting, officials kept on saying that construction activities at all major intersections—Iftikhar Janjua Chowk, Kachehri Chowk, and Jinnah Park—have been underway simultaneously since November 3. This synchronized approach is aimed at accelerating the overall timeline of the project.
Construction updates: Kachehri Chowk flyover and underpass
At Kachehri Chowk, which is highly famous for heavy traffic blockage due to its central location, the project has recorded noteworthy progress:
• 28% of the piling work for the flyover has been completed
• 32% progress reported in girder construction
• 17% of the piling for the underpass finalized
Iftikhar Janjua Chowk construction updates
Meanwhile, at Iftikhar Janjua Chowk, the guide beam work has been fully completed, and drilling is currently in progress. This component is essential for the structural integrity of the upcoming flyover and underpass system.
Commissioner Aamir Khattak emphasized the importance of transparent use of funds, strict adherence to environmental safety standards, and timely completion of every segment of the project. He expressed satisfaction that the funds already released have been utilized strictly according to the approved financial plan, adding that instructions for the next round of fund releases have already been issued.
He particularly directed the Frontier Works Organisation (FWO) to speed up the construction of the Annexy Chowk underpass and the Iftikhar Janjua underpass, as these are one of the most important links to make certain smoother intercity travel between Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Once completed, these underpasses are expected to drastically reduce bottlenecks that currently frustrate daily commuters.
The meeting was attended by Additional Commissioner (Coordination) Zainia Humayun, the Superintending Engineer Highways, and officers from multiple relevant departments. Their inputs made certain that every technical and administrative aspect of the project was reviewed in depth.
More about signal-free corridor project
Punjab Minister for Communication and Works Malik Sohaib Ahmed Bherth on Thursday said that the signal-free corridor project would greatly benefit the large population of Rawalpindi by resolving chronic traffic congestion issues in the city.
The Rs 14 billion project includes the remodelling of Kachehri Chowk, Iftikhar Janjua Chowk and Annexy Chowk, along with the construction of three underpasses and a flyover stretching from Rawat Chowk to Rashid Minhas Road.
The signal-free corridor project, to be completed within eight months, would not only ease congestion but also enhance mobility and accessibility across major city routes.