Rawalpindi: The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) has unveiled plans to significantly improve Murree Road, one of the city’s busiest thoroughfares, with an estimated cost of PKR 9 billion. The project aims to upgrade the stretch from Saddar to Faizabad and add service lanes from Liaquat Bagh to Chandni Chowk.
RDA Director General Kinza Murtaza told Dawn that the Punjab government had instructed the RDA and other civic bodies to submit development projects for the garrison city. In response, the RDA proposed two separate initiatives to rehabilitate and expand Murree Road, the main artery connecting Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
“Murree Road’s condition has deteriorated over time, and most commuters traveling between the twin cities use this stretch,” Murtaza said. “Once completed, the road will allow smooth and uninterrupted travel.”
The first project, valued at PKR 8.1 billion, involves the construction of service lanes on both sides of Murree Road from Liaquat Bagh to Chandni Chowk. These additions are expected to make the main route signal-free between Marrir Chowk and Faizabad. The project design will be finalized after the release of funds from the provincial government, with land acquisition already under survey.
“The widened stretch will not only enhance traffic capacity but also present a modern look to visitors and residents,” she added. Currently, service lanes exist from Chandni Chowk to Faizabad, and the new lanes will complement them.
The second initiative, costing PKR 953 million, focuses on the rehabilitation and re-carpeting of Murree Road from Saddar Flashman’s to Faizabad. The last major repair on this section was carried out in 2014 following the construction of the Metro Bus elevated track.
A senior district administration official said the government is preparing a comprehensive development package for Rawalpindi, following a model similar to Lahore. From 2026 onwards, residents can expect improvements in water supply, sewerage, pollution control, and other civic amenities.
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