Islamabad has officially opened a new underpass at Shaheen Chowk, marking another major step toward improving traffic flow and urban mobility in the capital. The project, completed in a record 63 days, is expected to provide immediate relief to thousands of daily commuters who pass through one of the city’s busiest intersections.
The Shaheen Chowk underpass Islamabad was inaugurated by Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who announced that the facility has been opened for traffic without delay. Designed as a signal-free corridor, the underpass allows uninterrupted vehicle movement, especially during peak hours when congestion has long been a challenge.
18 projects completed by CDA in 2025
The Shaheen Chowk underpass has been opened for traffic and it is part of the 18 projects completed by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) in 2025, including five major road projects.
Key projects completed last year include:
- Serena Interchange
- Murree Road Underpass
- F-8 Interchange
- T Chowk Flyover
- Shaheen Chowk Underpass
- Park Road
- Business Facilitation Centre
In total, CDA completed these projects at a cost of Rs 15 billion, improving infrastructure and connectivity across the capital.
Signal-Free Underpass to Save Time and Fuel
Officials said the newly opened underpass will significantly
- Reduce travel time
- Cut fuel consumption
- Improve overall road safety
With traffic signals removed at this junction, vehicles can now pass through smoothly, minimizing long queues and frustration for motorists.
To improve visibility and aesthetics, permanent decorative lighting has been installed inside and around the underpass. Authorities keep on believing this will not only improve safety at night but also contribute to the modern urban outlook of Islamabad.
Read also: Islamabad’s Shaheen Chowk underpass nears completion after rapid work
CDA Confirms Timely Completion and Quality Standards
Before the inauguration, Capital Development Authority (CDA) Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa visited Shaheen Chowk to review the final progress. CDA officials confirmed that all sections of the project were completed on schedule, highlighting better coordination between departments and improved project execution.
Randhawa expressed satisfaction with the speed and quality of the work, stating that the underpass will provide immediate and long-term relief for residents and daily commuters.
New Year Celebrations and Traffic Arrangements
Alongside the opening of the Shaheen Chowk underpass, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also announced a New Year’s Eve fireworks display at F-9 Park. Special arrangements have been made to facilitate families, including
- Designated parking areas
- Traffic diversions to reduce any blockage
The City Traffic Officer (CTO) is all set to check and evaluate traffic flow throughout the event, while the Chief Commissioner of Islamabad will personally watch security and operational arrangements to ensure public safety.
Read more: Cost of both T-Chowk flyover and Shaheen Chowk underpass rise by 15%
Islamabad’s is heavily emphasizing on Urban Infrastructure
The Shaheen Chowk underpass is part of Islamabad’s broader plan to
- Upgrade road infrastructure
- Ease traffic congestion
- Improve commuting efficiency across the city
Over the past year, several underpasses and signal-free corridors have been completed, which is strongly depicting the government’s focus on fast-track development projects.
With the opening of this new underpass, residents can expect smoother travel, reduced delays, and a more efficient traffic system—further strengthening Islamabad’s image as a well-planned and modern capital city.