CDA prepares for construction as diversion road and utility shifting work continues at the busy Islamabad junction
ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is preparing to formally launch construction of the Kashmir Chowk underpass, with the groundbreaking ceremony expected to take place on October 5.
The CDA has already started work on a diversion road to manage traffic during construction, while the shifting of utilities at the project site is also in progress. According to a CDA official, excavation and main construction work will begin after the groundbreaking ceremony.
The underpass project has been awarded following the completion of the bidding process. The financial bid submitted by Habib Construction Services (HCS) was Rs1.45 billion, compared with the CDA’s estimated tender cost of Rs1.486 billion.
The bidding documents specify a 90-day completion period. However, CDA officials have indicated that the authority is aiming to complete the project within around two months on a fast-track basis.
The project is planned at Kashmir Chowk on Murree Road, near Islamabad Club. Once completed, traffic travelling towards Rawalpindi from the Serena side will use the underpass, while the road above the underpass will serve traffic heading towards Murree.
The CDA had earlier evaluated technical bids from two construction firms. One bidder was declared non-responsive during the technical evaluation, after which the financial bid of HCS was opened.
The authority has said the contractor’s previous experience in completing CDA projects within shorter timeframes will support the fast-track construction plan. Projects previously completed by the contractor include the Serena Interchange, Murree Road underpass, T-Chowk flyover and Sheen Chowk underpass.
The Kashmir Chowk project is part of a wider development push by the CDA. The authority is also preparing to launch other major projects, including a cricket stadium, an additional block at the Jinnah Convention Centre, Safari Park and the National History Museum in Malpur.
For Islamabad commuters, the Kashmir Chowk underpass is expected to provide a dedicated route for traffic moving between the Serena side and Rawalpindi while separating it from traffic travelling towards Murree.
