Punjab approves the third revised project plan, adding the Thalian interchange to the cost while tolling facilities and related systems remain under development.
RAWALPINDI, October 17, 2026: The estimated cost of the Rawalpindi Ring Road project has increased to Rs50.4 billion after the Punjab Development Working Party (PDWP) approved its third revised project plan.
The approval was granted at a meeting in Lahore on October 12, chaired by the chairman of the Punjab Planning and Development Board. The revised plan also includes the construction cost of the Thalian broad-based interchange.
The project’s original approved cost was Rs26.9 billion. It later increased to Rs32.9 billion in the first revision and Rs46.4 billion in the second. The latest approval has raised the estimated cost to Rs50.4 billion.
38.3-Kilometre Road Route Completed
The Rawalpindi Ring Road covers approximately 38.3 kilometres, connecting Banth on GT Road with the Thalian area near the M-2 Motorway.
The main route and four interchanges at Banth, Chakbeli Khan, Adiala and Chakri have been reported as complete. The project is expected to provide an alternative route for traffic and improve connections around Rawalpindi.
However, completion of the main road does not mean all related facilities are ready for use.
Tolling System Work Continues
Construction of the civil structure for the tolling booths has been completed, while work on way stations and the Intelligent Transport System (ITS) is continuing.
The Punjab Ring Road Authority (PRRA) has taken over the tolling system from One Network Company and will manage its operation and maintenance.
These facilities are important for managing traffic and operating the road once it opens to the public.
Thalian Interchange Included in Revised Plan
The latest revised plan includes the cost of the Thalian broad-based interchange. Land acquisition for the interchange has been completed, according to the reported project update.
The interchange is intended to connect the Ring Road with the motorway network. Its development is an important part of the wider transport link, although the remaining work and opening arrangements still need to be completed.
Inauguration Date Awaited
The administration has requested Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to set a date for the Ring Road’s inauguration.
The project has faced a long history of delays and repeated cost revisions. Its opening will depend on the completion of the remaining tolling facilities and related work, along with the authorities’ final arrangements.
The latest cost approval marks another major financial revision for one of Rawalpindi’s key road infrastructure projects. Attention will now remain on the completion of supporting facilities and the announcement of an opening date.
