RAWALPINDI, PUNJAB — A significant milestone has been reached in the Rawalpindi Ring Road project, with 49 percent of the construction work completed, as briefed by Chief Engineer of Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA), Anwar Baran, to Brigadier (R) Babar Alauddin, Chairperson of the Chief Minister’s Surveillance Directorate Punjab.
This critical infrastructure initiative, aimed at transforming the traffic flow and economic landscape of Rawalpindi, continues to progress under the direct supervision of provincial leadership, reflecting Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s commitment to swift and effective public development.
Intensive Supervision and Renewed Directives for Acceleration
During an on-site inspection of the Rawalpindi Ring Road construction, Brigadier (R) Babar Alauddin evaluated the project’s ongoing phases. The call for expedited development reflects the administration’s vision of completing this high-priority infrastructure venture as quickly as possible.
The Chairperson also urged coordinated collaboration between departments and prompt resolution of administrative bottlenecks to avoid delays.
One of the critical issues affecting large-scale infrastructure development in Punjab has been illegal land acquisition and the proliferation of unauthorized housing societies.
The directives include the demolition of illegal structures, cancellation of non-compliant housing plans, and heavy penalties for individuals or groups involved in unlawful construction. These measures aim to safeguard public property, maintain the integrity of the Ring Road corridor, and discourage future encroachments.
Stretching over 38.3 kilometers, the road is expected to connect important national and regional highways, including GT Road, M-1, and M-2 motorways, thereby improving inter-city connectivity and reducing travel time drastically.
Infrastructure Progress and Construction Highlights
- Earthwork and soil stabilization
- Bridge structures and culverts
- Asphalt base and sub-base laying
- Drainage systems and service ducts
- Land acquisition and site clearance
The remaining construction work involves pavement layers, road surfacing, and installation of street lighting and signage.
- Reduction in Urban Traffic Congestion: Diverting transit and heavy vehicles away from inner city areas
- Improved Logistics for Industry: Facilitating quicker goods movement and cutting transportation costs
- Environmental Benefits: Reduced vehicular emissions in city centers, improving air quality
- Tourism Uplift: Easier access to recreational destinations near Rawalpindi and Murree
RDA has also launched a community engagement program to raise awareness about the project and to collect feedback from residents affected by construction.
- Monthly progress updates
- Real-time construction tracking
- Strict quality assurance audits
- Zero tolerance policy against corruption or mismanagement