Islamabad, 29 Apr, 2025: The Rawalpindi Ring Road project, an ambitious 38-kilometre initiative worth Rs. 32.996 billion, is progressing as planned, with authorities confirming that the key infrastructure development will be completed by the end of 2025.
Authorities at the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) have described the project as a transformative development for the region, one that promises to ease traffic congestion between Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
The road is expected to unlock substantial economic opportunities by improving accessibility to vital areas, including the New Islamabad International Airport, and fostering the growth of new commercial zones.
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The road’s strategic position along the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is expected to further enhance regional trade and investment prospects.
Once finished, the Rawalpindi Ring Road will be a six-lane, controlled-access highway designed for speeds of up to 120 km/h.
It will feature a 90-meter-wide right of way, complete with five major interchanges Baanth, Maira Mohra, Khasala, Kolian Parr, and Thalian.
The infrastructure will also include two key bridges over the Soan and Sill rivers, 12 bridges spanning nullahs and other roadways, a railway bridge, and 11 overpasses. These features aim to address both transportation efficiency and safety.
A significant portion of the land required for the project approximately 8,992 kanals was acquired at a cost of Rs. 6.7 billion, a figure separate from the main construction budget.
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According to Kinza Murtaza, the Director-General of RDA, half of the construction work is already completed.
She mentioned that Rs. 12 billion was allocated by the Punjab government in January, with Rs. 7 billion utilized so far. The remaining funds will be deployed within the next fiscal year, with Rs. 5 billion expected to be spent by June 2025.
The project, which originally envisioned a 68-kilometre road under the previous administration, has now been adjusted to a 38.3-kilometre stretch, starting from Baanth on the Grand Trunk Road and extending to Thalian near the motorway.
Murtaza expressed confidence that once completed, the Rawalpindi Ring Road will significantly alleviate traffic congestion in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
Additionally, it is anticipated to boost economic activities in the surrounding areas, particularly in emerging commercial zones, thereby stimulating the local economy.
