Ring Road project hits key milestone

Installation of girders will ease traffic congestion, improve regional connectivity

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RAWALPINDI:

The installation of the girders on the longest Soan Bridge under the Rawalpindi Ring Road (RRR) project officially commenced on Thursday, marking a critical milestone in this significant infrastructure initiative aimed at easing traffic congestion in Rawalpindi.

Inaugurating the installation of the girders on the Soan Bridge, Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) Director-General Kinza Murtaza on Thursday said this development marks a major achievement in the construction of the multi-lane highway, which aims to reduce traffic congestion and boost regional connectivity.

The Soan Bridge girder, which spans over the Soan River, is a crucial component in completing this vital infrastructure project. "The completion of this girder is an important step forward in the Ring Road Rawalpindi project," said DG RD adding, "Once finished, the Ring Road will not only alleviate traffic congestion in Rawalpindi but will also provide a safer, more efficient route for travellers across the region."

The DG directed the officers concerned for timely and efficient completion of the work. She emphasised that the project must meet all deadlines set in the timeline.

"However, there will be no compromise on the quality and standard of the work. We are committed to ensuring that the flyovers are built to the highest standards for the safety and convenience of the public," she added.

The RRR project, a flagship initiative by RDA, is set to enhance the city's transportation network by connecting various major roads, highways, and industrial areas. The project will provide an alternative route to the already congested city centre, helping reduce travel times and improve traffic flow, she said.

RDA is working in collaboration to ensure the project progresses smoothly and that safety protocols are strictly followed during the construction phase.

With the completion of the Soan Bridge girder, the project is on track for completion in the coming months, significantly benefiting Rawalpindi's infrastructure and contributing to regional economic development.

Earlier this month, the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) of the federal government approved the revised PC-1 of the project which will be considered in the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) meeting.

The RRR project has been scheduled for completion in June 2025, but the current pace of work is extremely slow. The Ring Road will start from Banth on the Grand Trunk Road (GT) Road and end at Thallian Motorway Interchange at a distance of 38.3 kilometres.

According to an RDA official, the much-anticipated project has seen 37% of its construction completed and the project would speed up after the approval of the revised PC-I.