Rawalpindi: ReNews Pakistan
The Punjab Highway Department has directed the National Engineering Services Pakistan (Nespak) to conduct a fresh review of the design for three proposed underpasses on Peshawar Road, as the government prepares to launch a major infrastructure project worth PKR 8 billion in early April.
Although the project design had already received approval from the Planning and Development Department, officials said the additional review aims to ensure improved traffic flow along one of the city’s busiest corridors. Special focus is being placed on refining the layout of link roads to eliminate potential bottlenecks between Saddar and Qasim Market.
The project involves the simultaneous construction of three underpasses on Peshawar Road, which currently accommodates more than 250,000 vehicles ежедневно. Authorities are targeting completion of the project before the onset of the monsoon season to avoid weather-related delays.
Preparatory work is already underway, including the relocation of essential utility services. Relevant departments have been instructed to expedite the shifting of electricity, gas, and communication infrastructure to clear the way for construction activities.
To minimise disruption for commuters, officials have confirmed that traffic will not be completely suspended during the construction phase. At least one lane on each side of the road will remain operational throughout the project duration.
In addition, land acquisition is in progress to support the expansion of service lanes along the route. Authorities have initiated the process, assuring that compensation for affected properties will be determined in accordance with prevailing market rates.
The Peshawar Road underpass project is part of broader government efforts to reduce congestion and enhance traffic management across key urban routes in Rawalpindi.

Rawalpindi: ReNews Pakistan
The major remodeling project at Kachehry Chowk, one of the busiest areas in Rawalpindi, is nearing completion, with 80% of the work already finished.
According to officials from the Punjab Highways Department’s Rawalpindi office, work on the remaining 20% is progressing at a fast pace to ensure completion within the مقررہ timeline. Authorities stated that only 32 days are left for the project’s completion.
The project includes the construction of underpasses and flyovers at Katchehry Chowk, Iftikhar Janjua Chowk, and Jinnah Park Chowk. The main objective is to reduce traffic congestion and improve the flow of vehicles in the city.
Officials further stated that once completed, the project will significantly enhance traffic movement and provide relief to citizens facing daily commuting challenges.

Rawalpindi | ReNews Pakistan
During Eid al-Fitr holidays, a large number of tourists flocked to the hill station of Murree, famously known as the “Queen of Hills,” putting pressure on civic and traffic management systems. Over 70,000 vehicles entered Murree during the festive period, while more than 11,740 tourists received guidance and assistance through various services.
To maintain smooth traffic flow and ensure tourists’ convenience, over 200 officers and personnel from the Traffic Police were deployed across the area. A control room led by Deputy Commissioner Murree Agha Zaheer Abbas Shirazi coordinated efforts with representatives from Punjab Police, Rescue 1122, Health Department, Traffic Police, Municipal Corporation, Highway Department, and other key agencies.
On the first day of Eid, authorities received 78 emergency calls, including 53 medical emergencies, 7 traffic accidents, and 18 cases of other types. Rescue teams provided first aid to 27 individuals on-site, while 48 patients were immediately transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Murree, Imran Razaq, praised the efforts of 200 traffic personnel deployed during the holidays, highlighting their dedication to maintaining traffic discipline and civic order. He also announced that certificates of appreciation would be awarded to traffic wardens and other staff who demonstrated exemplary performance.
Officials emphasized that such coordinated civic and traffic management measures are essential in popular tourist destinations like Murree to ensure public safety, smooth transport, and a clean, organized environment for residents and visitors alike.