RAWALPINDI: The multi billion rupee Rawalpindi Ring Road project has reached around 80 percent completion, but its final deadline has been extended to the end of April due to pending approval of the revised PC I. The updated project cost has increased to Rs53 billion and is currently under review by the Punjab Planning and Development Board.
Officials from the district administration confirmed that most construction work is progressing smoothly, however the delay is mainly linked to the Thalian Interchange. This key component will connect the Ring Road with the Motorway and is considered critical for managing future traffic flow. The revised PC I is expected to be taken up by the Planning and Development Board in its next meeting.
According to officials, the board raised objections regarding cost escalation, prompting the Project Management Unit and the Rawalpindi Development Authority to submit detailed justifications. A technical team from the Planning and Development Board recently visited the site and reviewed construction progress, flood protection measures and the proposed interchange design.
Deputy Project Director Ashfaq Sulheri stated that over 90 percent of structural work has been completed, including all major bridges such as the railway bridge. Asphalt laying has been finished on a 22 kilometre stretch of the 38 kilometre corridor between Baanth and Thalian, placing the project in its final phase.
He explained that the Rs5 billion Thalian Interchange is essential as more than 18,000 vehicles are expected to access the Motorway daily through the Ring Road. Without a proper interchange, congestion and long queues could become a serious issue in the future.
The revised cost reflects three major factors including construction of the interchange, enhanced flood mitigation measures following recent flood damage to Motorway 5, and rising prices of construction materials. Officials added that lighting procurement is complete, modern signboards are being prepared and plantation has started, with six to eight foot trees being planted to give the Ring Road a greener outlook.
