Pindi set for Kachehri Chowk overhaul

Project promises to resolve garrison city's worst traffic bottleneck

RAWALPINDI:

Work on the long-awaited District Courts Underpass and Overhead Bridge Project will begin on November 3, marking a major milestone in Rawalpindi's urban infrastructure development.

With an estimated cost of Rs31 billion, the ambitious initiative aims to end chronic traffic congestion at Kachehri Chowk, one of the city's busiest intersections, through the construction of a modern underpass and overhead bridge.

The project is a key component of the Kachehri Chowk Signal-Free Corridor Scheme, designed to ensure uninterrupted traffic flow between the city, cantonment, and the Grand Trunk (GT) Road. Under the approved plan, three flyovers and three underpasses will be built from the Annexe area to University Chowk, with completion expected within ten months.

To facilitate construction, all roads surrounding the District Courts Complex, including nine adjoining routes, will remain closed for up to six months. The newly issued traffic management plan also introduces revised routes for VIP and VVIP movements, while temporary parking has been arranged at Jinnah Park for visitors to the courts and nearby offices.

Announcing the project launch, the Deputy Commissioner of Rawalpindi called it a "landmark initiative" of the Punjab government to resolve one of the region's most persistent traffic challenges. He said the development would not only ease congestion but also improve mobility, urban aesthetics, and overall civic convenience.

"This project marks a historic step towards transforming Rawalpindi's road infrastructure and improving residents' quality of life," he said, urging citizens to exercise patience, cooperate with traffic police, and plan alternative routes to ensure timely completion.

Negotiations between the District Bar Association (DBA) and project authorities are underway to finalise relocation plans for lawyers' chambers, kiosks, and the mosque within the courts compound. According to DBA President Sardar Manzar Bashir and Secretary Malik Asad, talks are progressing positively and suitable alternative sites are being identified. Work on the Mall Road side will start on November 3, while the chambers and canteen side will follow after relocation.

Currently, over 200,000 vehicles pass through Kachehri Chowk daily, along with 35,000 students commuting to nearby institutions. The intersection is one of the city's most congested points, mainly due to signals at Ankasi, Kachehri, and University chowks.

To manage the expected disruptions, the City Traffic Police has prepared a comprehensive diversion plan. Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Farhan Aslam said more than 450 traffic officers and wardens will be deployed round the clock in three shifts to maintain order and ensure smooth flow.