by Islamabad, often praised for its well-planned infrastructure and serene urban landscape, is now facing significant roadblocks—quite literally. Two of the capital’s major road development projects have been delayed due to a shortage of funds, causing concern among residents and commuters who rely on these routes for daily travel.
The Projects in Question
The two key projects affected are:
- Margalla Avenue Extension
- IJP Road Expansion Project
Both were part of a broader initiative aimed at improving traffic flow, reducing congestion, and enhancing connectivity between major sectors of Islamabad and its adjoining areas.
Margalla Avenue Extension
The Margalla Avenue Extension, envisioned as a vital link between Sector D-12 and Murree Road, was supposed to ease pressure on Kashmir Highway and provide an alternative route to the residents of northern sectors. Work had started with much optimism, but the project has stalled as payments to contractors have been delayed. This has raised concerns over prolonged construction activity disrupting nearby residential communities and slowing economic activity.
IJP Road Expansion
The expansion of Ijaz-ul-Haq (IJP) Road, a critical artery connecting Rawalpindi and Islamabad, was another flagship infrastructure plan. Known for its heavy traffic and deteriorating condition, the IJP Road desperately needed widening and rehabilitation. The project was expected to improve the flow of cargo and public transport between the twin cities. However, similar financial hurdles have brought progress to a standstill.
The Financial Bottleneck
Sources within the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and National Logistics Cell (NLC) have indicated that the lack of timely fund disbursement from the federal government is the main cause of the delays. Although allocations were made in the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP), actual release of funds has been sporadic and insufficient.
This financial constraint has not only halted physical work but also demotivated contractors and suppliers, some of whom are demanding advance payments to resume operations.
Public Impact and Frustration
These delays are not just administrative hiccups—they directly impact thousands of daily commuters. Increased travel times, traffic congestion, and damaged detours are already affecting productivity and quality of life. Residents living near the construction zones have voiced concerns about noise, dust, and safety hazards.
Social media platforms have seen a spike in complaints, with citizens urging local and federal authorities to expedite the release of funds and complete these much-needed projects.
What’s Next?
While officials claim that they are in touch with relevant ministries and hope to secure the required budget soon, there is no confirmed timeline for the resumption of work. Urban planners warn that extended delays could also increase the final cost of the projects due to inflation and material price hikes.
Conclusion
Islamabad’s charm has always rested on its balance between natural beauty and organized urban design. However, if vital infrastructure projects continue to be mired in bureaucratic and financial delays, the city risks compromising not only its aesthetic but also its functionality.
