The multi-billion-rupee Rawalpindi Ring Road project has considered one of the most significant public infrastructure initiatives in the city, is nearing completion with major construction milestones already achieved.
According to officials, asphalt has been laid on 23 kilometres of the 38.3-kilometre-long road, while more than 90 per cent of the structural work has been completed. This includes the construction of all bridges, including the railway bridge.
While explaining the current status of the construction work, officials of the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) said the project is expected to be completed by the end of April.
They added that the project’s initial estimated cost of Rs 32 billion has risen to Rs 52 billion, which is currently undergoing the approval process. So far, Rs 30 billion has been released for the project. Authorities expect an additional Rs 3.3 billion to be released in the coming days to ensure timely completion of the project.
It is worth mentioning here that last year, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz had assured the provision of the required funds for the Rawalpindi Ring Road project and set a deadline for its completion.
During a surprise visit to the site, Punjab Chief Minister directed that the scope of the project be expanded. She set a deadline of December for the completion of the project and also conducted an aerial survey of the site.
The primary objective of the Rawalpindi Ring Road project is to divert heavy traffic, particularly commercial and inter-city vehicles, away from Rawalpindi’s congested city centre, thereby easing traffic pressure and improving urban mobility.
The project is also aimed at enhancing regional connectivity. Once completed, the project will provide fast and direct links between major national highways, including the N-5, M-1, and M-2, and key areas of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, as well as the New Islamabad International Airport.
Beyond transportation, the Ring Road is expected to serve as a major economic corridor. The government plans to develop industrial and commercial zones along the project’s alignment to attract new businesses, promote trade, and generate employment opportunities.
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