RAWALPINDI: The divisional administration has set a fresh deadline of February 20 for the completion of underground electricity and water supply works in Raja Bazaar and Commercial Market, as delays continue to plague one of the garrison city’s busiest commercial zones. Islamabad Electric Supply Company and the Water and Sanitation Agency have been directed to complete all underground cabling and pipeline work within the new timeline.
The latest deadline was issued by Divisional Commissioner Andul Amer Khattak during an inspection visit to Raja Bazaar pedestrian streets and Commercial Market Satellite Town. The project has already missed multiple deadlines, including December 31 and January 31, raising concerns over coordination among civic agencies and project execution.
Authorities reiterated that the road from Fawara Chowk to Hamilton Road, popularly known as Dingi Khoi, will remain closed to vehicular traffic as it is being converted into a pedestrian street under a Rs450 million development plan. In Commercial Market, a separate Rs370 million project is underway to create a pedestrian friendly commercial corridor.
Officials briefed the commissioner that beautification work will continue until May 30. This includes installation of arch walls, façade upgrades, durable tiles, benches, street lighting, Victorian style lamps and decorative planters. The administration stressed that quality standards will not be compromised and directed all utility departments to complete underground services before surface work is finalised.
The commissioner also instructed traffic police to manage congestion around affected areas and asked the Rawalpindi Waste Management Company to improve sanitation on an emergency basis. He said citizen convenience remains the government’s top priority during development works.
Meanwhile, traders and visitors expressed frustration over slow progress, dug up roads and lack of parking, saying business activity has suffered. RMC officials, however, claimed that water and gas lines have been relocated and underground electricity work is nearing completion, assuring that the project will be completed within the revised schedule and will transform Raja Bazaar into a modern pedestrian zone.
