RAWALPINDI: A major plan to tackle chronic traffic congestion on Murree Road has been set in motion, as authorities prepare to construct a new underpass at Marrir Chowk. The Punjab Communication and Works Department has formally proposed the project for inclusion in the Annual Development Programme 2026 to 27.

Officials confirmed that initial paperwork has begun for the underpass, which will connect Rashid Minhas Road with Liaquat Bagh. The project is expected to move into execution in the next fiscal year, subject to approval from the provincial government.

The move comes amid growing pressure to streamline traffic flow following the near completion of the Kutchery Chowk remodelling project. Authorities believe that without additional interventions, traffic congestion will shift towards Murree Road and surrounding inner city areas.

More than 150000 vehicles pass through Marrir Chowk daily, making it one of Rawalpindi’s busiest intersections. Officials said the underpass is essential to eliminate bottlenecks caused by vehicles entering Murree Road from Kutchery Chowk via Rashid Minhas Road.

Temporary traffic management measures, including U turns at Marrir Chowk and Liaquat Bagh, have already been introduced to ease pressure and move towards a signal free corridor from The Mall to Naz Cinema. However, officials say these are short term solutions and a permanent structure is needed.

The proposed project has a long history, with earlier plans shelved due to high land acquisition costs. With feasibility work now revived and administrative control shifted to the Communication and Works Department, authorities are optimistic that the underpass will finally move forward, marking a significant step towards modernising Rawalpindi’s urban traffic infrastructure.