RAWALPINDI: Divisional Commissioner Abdul Aamer Khattak has directed the Punjab Communication and Works Department and the Frontier Works Organization to accelerate work on the Katchery Chowk Remodeling Project and ensure completion by April 30. The directive was issued during a detailed inspection visit to review construction progress on Tuesday.

Accompanied by officials of the Frontier Works Organization, the commissioner examined ongoing development activities and received a comprehensive briefing from engineers and contractors. Officials informed him that construction is underway in double shifts to meet the revised deadline and reduce public inconvenience.

According to the briefing, the overall progress of the project has surpassed 64 percent. Work at Katchery Intersection has reached 64 percent completion, Iftikhar Janjua Chowk stands at 65 percent, while Annexy Chowk has achieved 62 percent progress. Although the project was launched in November 2025 with an 18 month completion timeline, authorities are pushing to deliver it ahead of schedule.

The remodeling scheme is a key component of the Rawalpindi Signal Free Corridor Project, aimed at transforming urban mobility in the city. The plan includes construction of dual flyovers and an underpass at Jinnah Park and Katchery Chowk, along with an underpass at Iftikhar Janjua Chowk to ease traffic bottlenecks.

Commissioner Khattak stated that modern infrastructure initiatives are essential to making Rawalpindi a connected and smart city. He noted that the project will significantly reduce traffic congestion, cut travel time and help conserve fuel once operational.

He also directed strict implementation of the traffic management plan during construction to minimize disruption for commuters. Emphasizing quality and efficiency, the commissioner made it clear that the project must be completed within the stipulated deadline without any compromise on construction standards.