On the directions of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, work on the Rawalpindi Ring Road is advancing swiftly, with the Director General of the Rawalpindi Development Authority, Kinza Murtaza, reporting that more than 75 percent of the project has been completed. She noted that temporary interruptions from heavy rains and flood-like conditions prevented the pace from reaching beyond 85 percent.
A special meeting at the RDA heard a detailed briefing from Project Manager Lt. Col. Fazal Khan on the current status and milestones achieved. The DG RDA commended the Frontier Works Organization for carrying out the work in a highly professional manner and maintaining momentum despite weather setbacks.
The project carries an estimated cost of approximately Rs. 35 billion and, according to the DG, is being finalised without placing any additional burden on the national exchequer. Work is proceeding strictly within the financial commitments made at the project’s initiation, with no approvals for new expenditures or cost overruns.
Authorities expect the Rawalpindi Ring Road to significantly reduce traffic congestion across the twin cities and surrounding districts once complete. The alignment will offer a faster route for travellers moving from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa into Punjab, ensure direct connectivity between the Motorway and the GT Road, and is estimated to save around 35 minutes for commuters heading toward Islamabad International Airport.
Plans for Phase II are already under study, and the DG RDA reiterated that the Ring Road is being implemented with full transparency and oversight to prevent irregularities or corruption. Work will continue as weather permits to meet the government’s timelines and deliver the intended benefits to commuters and regional traffic flows.
