The 38.3-kilometre project was initially estimated at Rs22.82 billion, while around 90% of the work is now reported to be complete.
RAWALPINDI: The Rawalpindi Ring Road project has seen its estimated cost rise to more than Rs53 billion amid prolonged delays, according to sources cited in a report published by The News on October 5, 2026.
The 38.3-kilometre, six-lane project was awarded in March 2022 at an initial estimated cost of Rs22.82 billion. Repeated delays and revisions have reportedly pushed the project cost to more than double its original estimate, with around Rs30 billion in additional expenditure.
Despite the extended timeline, officials of the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) said approximately 90% of the project has now been completed and construction is progressing rapidly.
Project faces prolonged delays
The Punjab government has announced several completion deadlines for the Ring Road, with preparations for its inauguration reportedly made twice. However, the project has continued to face delays.
The rising cost has raised concerns about the financial impact of the prolonged construction period on the national exchequer. The Ring Road is regarded as one of the largest infrastructure projects undertaken in Rawalpindi.
The project is designed to improve traffic movement around the city and provide a controlled-access route for vehicles travelling between major points around Rawalpindi.
Inquiry into design changes
An inquiry into alleged changes to the original Ring Road design was initiated in July 2026.
According to the report, Additional Chief Secretary Ahmed Raza Sarwar requested the complete project record as part of the inquiry. Issues concerning No Objection Certificates (NOCs), approved layouts, access roads and other required clearances have also become the subject of legal proceedings.
Questions surrounding changes to the project’s original design first emerged in 2022. The controversy subsequently resulted in the transfer of several senior officials, including then Rawalpindi Commissioner Muhammad Mehmood and Deputy Commissioner Anwar-ul-Haq.
Around 90% of work reported complete
Despite the financial and administrative challenges, RDA sources say construction has reached approximately 90% completion and is moving ahead at a faster pace.
The latest progress comes as authorities work toward making the long-delayed Ring Road operational. A separate recent report indicated that remaining works include toll-plaza facilities and other allied infrastructure before the road can fully open to traffic.
The project remains closely watched because of its potential impact on Rawalpindi’s traffic network and regional connectivity, while the sharp increase in its estimated cost continues to raise questions about project management, delays and revisions.
