Raja Bazaar's beautification on the cards

Following the underground cabling and beautification project in the commercial area of the cantonment, the Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation (RMC) has decided to launch a similar project for the historic Raja Bazaar, stretching from Fountain Chowk to Dangi Khoi Chowk.

The Punjab government had directed the RMC to remove the electricity and PTCL poles and overhead cables in the area, transferring them underground. In accordance with this, corporation has requested demand notices from IESCO and PTCL for the costs associated with underground cable transfer, pole removal, and the installation of new transformers.

On February 4, RMC Chief Officer Imran Ali sent a letter to the Superintending Engineer of IESCO and the General Manager of PTCL, informing them that, under the instructions of the Punjab government, the decision has been made to remove the electric and PTCL poles and cables from Raja Bazaar (from Fountain Chowk to Dangi Khoi Chowk) and to move them underground.

The letter requests demand notices for the estimated costs of underground cable transfer, pole removal, and new transformer installation so that the RMC can make the necessary payments to both organisations. The demand notices should also specify the timeline for completing the work.

The underground cabling and beautification project in Raja Bazaar will include the installation of a new sewerage system, the laying of new tiles, and the installation of a modern lighting system.

A complete walking street will be created, with full closure to vehicles, motorcycles, and bicycles.

All historic buildings in the commercial area of Raja Bazaar will be restored to their original form, and beautiful benches will be placed along the walking street. Executive washrooms will also be constructed as part of the project. The expenses for the underground cabling and beautification project will be covered by the RMC funds, along with financial assistance from the Punjab government. RMC CO Imran Ali says the Raja Bazaar underground cabling and beautification project will serve as a pilot project, which, if successful, will be extended to other markets in the city.

In addition, he adds, improvements are being made to the traffic system in the city, the operation to eliminate encroachments is ongoing, and now traffic coming from Pirwadhai will no longer be able to enter Raja Bazaar.