One year after its launch the Raja Bazaar Pedestrian Street project in Rawalpindi remains far from completion causing persistent hardship for traders shoppers and visitors. The key commercial stretch from Fawara Chowk to Hamilton Road commonly known as Dingi Khoi was closed to vehicular traffic with the promise of a modern pedestrian friendly market but prolonged digging and slow execution have undermined those expectations.

The project with an approved cost of Rs450 million aimed to transform the historic bazaar into a walkable retail corridor. However progress on shifting electricity and telecom infrastructure underground has remained sluggish. Although a December 30 deadline was announced by the railways minister the timeline has now been extended to January 30 adding to public frustration.

Visitors to Raja Bazaar say access has become increasingly difficult due to broken roads limited parking and poor mobility. Shoppers report long walking distances from parking areas while navigating uneven surfaces and construction debris. Many say the inconvenience discourages regular visits to one of Rawalpindi’s busiest markets.

Traders have also voiced serious concerns over declining footfall and financial losses. Shopkeepers say customers avoid the area due to dust congestion and access issues. Daily loading and unloading of goods has become a challenge forcing traders to spend extra time and resources just to keep shops operational and clean.

According to the Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation the main delay lies with the electricity utility which has yet to complete underground cabling work. Officials say that once handed over the civic body will begin road construction footpaths drainage and beautification which could take another two to three months. Water sewerage and telecom work has largely been completed.

Despite official assurances the prolonged disruption has triggered criticism from the business community. Traders argue that authorities closed a vital commercial artery without ensuring timely execution. As deadlines continue to shift many fear that unless work accelerates the pedestrianisation plan may further damage Raja Bazaar’s economic vitality rather than revive it.