RAWALPINDI: Two of Rawalpindi’s most ambitious urban redevelopment projects have run into further delays, with authorities confirming that the pedestrian street schemes in Raja Bazaar and Commercial Market will require at least another month for completion. The prolonged construction has triggered growing frustration among shoppers, traders and commuters who continue to face traffic congestion, limited access and declining business activity in the city’s busiest commercial hubs.
The Raja Bazaar pedestrian street project, stretching from Fawara Chowk to Hamilton Road and commonly known as Dingi Khoi, was launched in February 2025 with an estimated cost of Rs450 million. The project aims to transform the historic market corridor into a modern pedestrian friendly zone featuring underground utility infrastructure, upgraded roads, footpaths, drainage systems, green spaces and public seating areas.
However, the slow pace of work has created significant hardships for residents and visitors. Dug up roads, the absence of parking facilities and severe traffic bottlenecks around Mochi Bazaar, Urdu Bazaar and adjoining markets have discouraged shoppers from visiting the area. Many citizens complained that the lack of planning for alternative parking arrangements has worsened the situation and damaged the overall shopping experience.
Municipal officials acknowledged the delay, attributing part of it to last month’s security related restrictions across the twin cities. According to Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation officials, more than 75 percent of the Raja Bazaar project has been completed, while utility relocation work by Wasa, PTCL and internet service providers has already been finalized. Installation of paving tiles, benches and landscaping is now underway.
Meanwhile, progress at the Commercial Market pedestrian street project has reached over 70 percent. Officials said the Rs370 million beautification initiative is expected to be completed by the end of June, transforming one of the city’s busiest commercial districts into a modern public space.
Traders remain concerned as the monsoon season approaches. Business leaders warn that continued delays could further hurt commercial activity and accelerate plans to shift wholesale operations to future markets planned along Rawalpindi Ring Road, potentially altering the commercial landscape of Raja Bazaar for years to come.
