Rawalpindi’s traffic relief initiative unveiled
Vehicles stuck in a traffic jam on Sharea Faisal due to the protest by Jamaat-e-Islami against frequent increases in electricity and fuel prices by the caretaker government. Photo: Jalal Qureshi/Express
The foundation stone for the long-anticipated signal-free corridor stretching from Pirwadhai Mor up to Katchery Chowk has been laid in Rawalpindi. Under the project, three underpasses and two protected U-turns will be constructed.
The 7.6-km-long project, costing Rs8.2 billion, aims to alleviate traffic congestion at key intersections in Rawalpindi. Besides, caretaker Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi has kick-started the extension of Asghar Mall Road.
CM Naqvi emphasised that the initiative is a long-term solution to the persistent traffic issues in the garrison city. The project includes the construction of a single-barrel underpass at Qasim Market and double-barrel underpasses at GPO Chowk and PC Chowk.
Simultaneously, the reconstruction of Asghar Mall Road, from Murree Road up to Chungi Number 4, has been launched to be completed before the stipulated timeline. Naqvi assured thorough cleaning of local sewerage lines to prevent water accumulation on the road, acknowledging the challenges faced by citizens due to its location in a densely populated area.
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During the inauguration, Naqvi highlighted the commitment to resolving traffic problems in the city through the repair and rehabilitation of link roads. The event was attended by several provincial ministers, including SM Tanveer, Doctor Javed Akram, Amir Mir, Doctor Jamal Nasir, Ibrahim Hassan Murad, Punjab chief secretary, P&D board chairman, secretaries of C&W, Health, Local government, Industries, and other officials concerned.
In a separate event, CM Naqvi inaugurated the renovated Sixth Road Metro Bus Station, Gymkhana, and Allama Iqbal e-Library in Rawalpindi. The Sixth Road Metro Station, damaged during the May 9th riots, underwent repair and renovation. Naqvi commended the rehabilitation work, stating that around 10 thousand citizens use the metro bus service from the Sixth Road station daily. The station, costing Rs100 million for repairs, has been reopened after 45 days of completion.
CM Naqvi also inspected the facilities at Rawalpindi Gymkhana, praising the quality of construction work and highlighting that no funds from the Punjab government were utilised in its construction.
Published in The Express Tribune, February 4th 2024.