Pindi plans pedestrian zones to ease traffic

The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) has unveiled an ambitious project aimed at tackling the city's traffic congestion and pollution. The plan includes converting select markets into pedestrian-only zones, expanding parking facilities, and creating dedicated cycle and motorcycle tracks along key routes, specifically from Katchery Chowk to Murree Road, Faizabad.

The project, which has been submitted to the Rawalpindi Commissioner for final approval, also proposes the relocation of the cattle market and transport terminals along GT Road. In addition, efforts will be made to clear encroachments, particularly around Katchery Chowk, and improve traffic flow through a series of strategic urban interventions.

RDA Director General Kinza Murtaza emphasised that the authority has intensified efforts to curb illegal housing schemes. She revealed that RDA has taken action against over 200 unapproved housing projects that have been defrauding citizens by promoting false promises and unlawfully taking their savings. She advised citizens to verify the legitimacy of any housing scheme with RDA before making any investments.

Murtaza also announced that RDA has banned new housing developments on agricultural land and has implemented measures to prevent illegal tree cutting. She further highlighted the authority's ongoing efforts to combat the growing problem of smog, underscoring the need for collective action.

In a move to improve urban mobility, the RDA has partnered with the Municipal Corporation to clear encroachments along the Katchery Chowk to Murree Road corridor, including the footpaths. Plans include the creation of cycle and motorcycle tracks on both sides of Murree Road.

"The increasing number of cars and motorbikes in narrow market streets is a key contributor to both traffic congestion and air pollution," Murtaza explained. "To address this, we are planning to designate busy commercial areas as pedestrian-only streets, while providing expanded parking facilities in available open spaces to accommodate vehicles."