The Park Road Underpass, also known as the Margalla Enclave Underpass, has been opened to traffic in Islamabad, marking a major development aimed at improving traffic flow and connectivity in one of the capital’s busiest areas.
The underpass is expected to provide smoother travel for thousands of commuters who use Park Road daily and help reduce congestion caused by the rapid development of nearby housing societies.
The project has also improved access to several major residential communities, including DHA Margalla Enclave, Park View City and Bahria Enclave. Officials expect the new infrastructure to reduce travel times and provide a more efficient transport route for residents and visitors travelling through the area.
Construction work on the project began in late January 2026, with traffic diversions introduced to facilitate construction while allowing vehicles to continue using the route. Full-scale construction officially commenced in March 2026 and continued over the following months.
Government officials had earlier informed the Senate that the underpass was expected to be completed by July 2026, while side development works around the facility were scheduled for completion by August 2026.
The construction work had caused considerable inconvenience for motorists in recent months. Traffic congestion along Park Road frequently resulted in delays of around 20 to 30 minutes, particularly during morning and evening peak hours.
With the underpass now open, motorists are expected to benefit from improved traffic movement and easier access to surrounding residential areas.
Islamabad Car Token Tax Increased
In a separate development, the federal government has increased the token tax on cars registered in Islamabad.
The National Assembly Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue approved an increase in the token tax applicable to vehicles registered in the capital.
According to Islamabad Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon, the increase was introduced after other provinces raised their respective token taxes.
The DC said the standing committee approved the request to increase the token tax in Islamabad to address the difference created following increases in other provinces.