by Punjab is embarking on an ambitious infrastructure push to ease traffic congestion in two of its busiest districts. Totaling tens of billions in rupees, these projects are set to transform urban mobility and boost regional connectivity.
1. Rawalpindi: A Rs 150 Billion Signal-Free Corridor
Under the Province’s Annual Development Programme (2025–26), Punjab has allocated a staggering Rs 150 billion to Rawalpindi’s urban transformation.
This massive package features 13 major road schemes, including the construction of 9 critical underpasses and flyovers at key chokepoints along Mall Road and adjacent corridors.
Major components:
- Race Course Underpass – Rs 2.6 billion
- Chairing Cross Underpass – Rs 1.5 billion
- Army Graveyard Chowk Underpass – Rs 1.9 billion
- Kachehri Chowk complex – Rs 4.45 billion
- Jinnah Park Flyover – Rs 4.15 billion
- Ammar Chowk Flyover – Rs 3.45 billion
- COD Chowk Underpass – Rs 3.75 billion
- Tulsa Road Underpass – Rs 1.69 billion
Once completed, the corridor will allow signal-free movement from T‑Chowk on GT Road through the cantonment area—linking Islamabad Expressway, Peshawar Road, and Mall Road—dramatically reducing travel times and easing gridlock. Major Projects in Rawalpindi & Faisalabad
2. Faisalabad District: Targeted Road Rehabilitation
Meanwhile, in Faisalabad, one of nine road infrastructure schemes approved by the Provincial Development Working Party (PDWP) will deliver traffic relief and connectivity upgrades across a key 59‑km route. The Tandlianwala to Kamalia stretch—via Zaffar Chowk and Mamukanjan—is slated for comprehensive rehabilitation at a cost of Rs 1.82 billion.
This project aims to support both economic movement along local trade corridors and commuter safety, complementing wider improvements across the province.
✅ Why It Matters
| Impact Area | Rawalpindi (Urban Lift) | Faisalabad (Regional Mobility) |
|---|---|---|
| Traffic congestion | Signal‑free corridor removes major bottlenecks | Improved provincial roads reduce delays |
| Economic activity | Supports daily commuting and commerce in a major city | Enhances transport for goods and rural trade |
| Safety & efficiency | Flyovers & underpasses reduce accident risk | Upgraded road surface and geometry improve road safety |
🛠 Implementation & Oversight
Punjab’s Planning & Development Board greenlit these projects mid‑2025 following scrutiny by senior officials like Barrister Nabeel Awan (P&D Chair), Dr. Asif Tufail (P&D Secretary), and Chief Economist Masood Anwar.
The Rawalpindi initiative is being executed under the provincial Highway Division, while Faisalabad’s rehabilitation is part of PDWP’s broader nine-project slate across multiple districts, totaling Rs 13.67 billion.
📅 Timeline & Outlook
- Rawalpindi: Most corridor elements are in early phases of construction—with phased releases of funds in FY 2025–26. Completion is projected over the next 1–2 years.
- Faisalabad: Work is expected to roll out shortly after PDWP approval, with completion likely within a year, depending on coordination across the district.
✍️ Final Thoughts
Punjab’s dual-focus on urban signal-free corridors in Rawalpindi and strategic road rehabilitation in Faisalabad reflects a balanced infrastructure strategy. By combining city-scale flyovers with rural arterial upgrades, the province is tackling congestion, supporting commerce, and improving road safety in two pivotal districts.
With execution underway, residents and businesses across both districts can look forward to smoother journeys—and a tangible improvement in everyday life.
