The Punjab government has greenlit a major infrastructure project in Rawalpindi that promises to transform the city’s traffic dynamics. A double-barrel underpass is set to be constructed on Mall Road in the Saddar area, stretching from TM Chowk to MH Chowk. This ambitious initiative aims to make Mall Road signal-free, easing traffic congestion and improving mobility in the bustling garrison city.
Project Overview
The construction of the underpass is scheduled to begin on February 17, with a target completion timeline of two months. Once operational, the underpass is expected to significantly reduce traffic bottlenecks on Mall Road and alleviate congestion in surrounding areas.
In addition to the underpass, the project will include the development of a dedicated sidewalk for pedestrians, ensuring safety and convenience for those traveling on foot. This dual focus on vehicular and pedestrian traffic underscores the government’s commitment to creating a more efficient and user-friendly urban environment.
Traffic Diversion Plan
During the construction period, Mall Road will be closed to all traffic between MH Chowk and TM Chowk. To minimise disruptions, the Rawalpindi City Traffic Police have devised a comprehensive alternative traffic plan. Approximately 150 traffic police personnel will be deployed at key locations to manage the flow of vehicles and ensure smooth movement.
Under the plan, traffic traveling from MH Chowk to TM Chowk will be redirected to Haider Road, which runs parallel to Mall Road. From there, vehicles can easily access Murree Road and Kutchery Chowk. The traffic police have urged motorists to follow the designated alternative routes and adhere to traffic regulations during the construction period.
Public Awareness and Cooperation
To keep citizens informed, the city traffic police have distributed 2,000 informational materials outlining the alternative routes and guidelines. Rawalpindi Chief Traffic Officer Beenish Fatima emphasised the importance of public cooperation, urging residents to follow traffic instructions and contact the police in case of confusion or emergencies.
Benefits of the Underpass
Once completed, the double-barrel underpass is expected to:
- Reduce traffic congestion on Mall Road and surrounding areas.
- Improve travel times for commuters.
- Enhance pedestrian safety with dedicated sidewalks.
- Boost economic activity by facilitating smoother traffic flow in the commercial hub of Saddar.
The construction of the double-barrel underpass on Mall Road is a significant step toward modernising Rawalpindi’s infrastructure. While the two-month construction period may cause temporary inconveniences, the long-term benefits of a signal-free Mall Road and improved traffic flow will be well worth the effort.
Stay tuned to PropertiesPakistan.com for the latest updates on this project and other real estate and infrastructure developments in Rawalpindi and across Pakistan.
