RAWALPINDI: The remodeling of the busy Katchery Chowk intersection in Rawalpindi is approaching completion, but the absence of proper traffic signboards at key points has sparked safety concerns among commuters navigating the congested area.
The project, launched on November 3, 2025, aims to improve traffic flow at one of the city’s busiest junctions. Despite the work entering its final stages nearly four months later, authorities have yet to install visible warning or directional signboards to guide motorists through diversion routes and blocked sections.
Before the start of construction, the district administration had identified several blocking and diversion points to regulate traffic around the work zone. Blocking points were established at locations including Shalimar Chowk, Mall Road, Police Lines Gate, Old Airport Road, Fatima Jinnah University Gate, Rashid Minhas Road, Bakery Chowk, APS Gate on Fort Road and Annexe Chowk.
Traffic police personnel have been deployed at these locations to control vehicle movement, yet commuters say the absence of clear signage and street lighting has created confusion and delays. Alternative diversion routes through Jhelum Road, Adiala Road, Marrir Chowk, Mushtaq Baig Shaheed Road and Airport Road are also operating without proper traffic guidance.
Chief Traffic Officer Rawalpindi Farham Aslam has raised the issue with the Rawalpindi commissioner, warning that the lack of signboards could lead to accidents and further traffic disruptions. Traffic authorities have written several letters requesting the installation of proper and visible traffic guidance boards at diversion points.
Citizens have criticised authorities for neglecting basic road safety measures despite heavy spending on development projects. Residents say many traffic signals across the city remain non functional and several alternative routes are in poor condition, adding to congestion and making daily travel increasingly difficult for motorists.
