The City Traffic Police (CTP) Rawalpindi issued a comprehensive traffic diversion plan to ensure smooth flow during the Kutchery Chowk remodelling project, which is scheduled to begin on November 3.
The long-awaited Kutchery Chowk remodeling project in Rawalpindi marks a major milestone in efforts to ease traffic congestion in the garrison city.
The Rs 14 billion project was one of the most significant infrastructure undertakings of the region, will bring both challenges and long-term relief to thousands of daily commuters.
Major Infrastructure Overhaul
As per officials, the Frontier Works Organization (FWO) has been awarded the contract to execute the project, which includes the construction of a flyover and two underpasses aimed at improving traffic flow near Jinnah Park and Iftikhar Janjua Road.
The project cost is split across components: Rs 6.6 billion for the main Kutchery Chowk flyover, Rs 5.2 billion for the Jinnah Park underpass, and Rs 2.7 billion for the Iftikhar Janjua underpass. The Punjab government has already released Rs 2 billion, with the remaining funds to follow soon.
Traffic Diversions and Road Closures
Given that over 250,000 vehicles pass through Kutchery Chowk every day, authorities have approved a comprehensive traffic diversion plan to minimize disruptions. The Rawalpindi City Traffic Police will manage the diversions with the assistance of additional personnel working in three shifts.
Traffic from Rawat T-Chowk heading toward the old airport will be rerouted through Bahria Town Phase-I, Gulraiz, and Bostan Khan Road to reach Car Chowk. Vehicles coming from Jhelum Road toward Peshawar Road or the motorway will use the Morgah turn, Attock Oil Refinery Road, and Defence Road, continuing via Talha Mor and Kalma Chowk to reach 22 Number Chowk.
Concerns of Commuters
While construction promises long-term benefits, many residents are fearful regarding traffic gridlocks and delays once the square is closed off. “It’s already complicated to pass through this area during rush hours—closure will make it worse,” said one commuter.
Moreover, various alternative routes, including Bostan Khan Road, are in poor condition due to potholes left by monsoon rains, with Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) yet to begin repairs.
Despite the concerns, officials remain optimistic, saying the project will be completed within six months, potentially transforming one of Rawalpindi’s busiest intersections into a modern, efficient traffic corridor.