Islamabad is set to receive two new major road corridors to improve traffic flow. City authorities have decided to restart the long-delayed 10th Avenue project. They have also approved moving forward with the construction of 11th Avenue. The decision comes amid concerns over rising traffic volumes in the capital.
Officials expect a sharp increase in traffic once a new road linking Margalla Road with Motorway M-1 becomes operational. This new connection is designed to improve regional connectivity. However, it is also expected to place heavy pressure on existing city roads. Authorities believe new arteries are essential to avoid congestion.
The Capital Development Authority is leading the planning and execution process. The aim is to strengthen Islamabadโs road network before traffic volumes surge. Urban planners say early intervention will help maintain smooth traffic movement.
Margalla RoadโM-1 Link and Traffic Impact
The CDA is currently finalizing the tender process for the Margalla Road to Motorway M-1 link. Once completed, this road will directly connect with the Rawalpindi Ring Road. The project is expected to divert regional traffic toward Islamabadโs northern sectors.
Officials warned that Margalla Road will experience increased traffic pressure. Vehicles from the motorway and ring road are likely to use this route. Without alternative corridors, traffic congestion could become severe during peak hours.
City planners identified the need for parallel routes to distribute traffic load. The 10th and 11th avenues are seen as critical solutions. These roads will help channel vehicles entering the city from multiple directions. They will also support smoother movement between major highways and urban roads.
Authorities believe that early development of these avenues will reduce future bottlenecks. The goal is to ensure uninterrupted traffic flow across key junctions. Efficient planning is seen as essential for sustainable urban growth.
Restart of 10th Avenue and Construction of 11th Avenue
The 10th Avenue project had remained stalled for a long time. Officials have now decided to revive and complete the project. Work is expected to resume once administrative and technical approvals are finalized.
The 11th Avenue project will be developed as a new traffic corridor. It will complement existing routes such as Margalla Avenue and Srinagar Highway. Together, these roads will form a broader network to handle increased vehicle movement.
The two avenues will serve traffic entering Islamabad from northern and western routes. They will also connect with internal city roads. This design will allow smoother transitions between highways and residential sectors.
Urban development experts say these projects align with Islamabadโs master plan. Completing missing road links has been a long-standing priority. Authorities believe these projects will modernize the cityโs infrastructure.
CDA Chairman Stresses Proactive Planning and EIAs
CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa emphasized proactive traffic management. He made these remarks while chairing a high-level meeting. He said regional road projects require advance planning within the city.
The chairman stated that completing missing links would significantly improve traffic flow. He stressed that infrastructure must keep pace with regional connectivity. Delays in planning could lead to long-term congestion problems.
He also issued clear instructions regarding environmental compliance. All future infrastructure projects must undergo timely Environmental Impact Assessments. EIAs must be completed before construction begins.
This step aims to ensure sustainable urban development. Environmental protection is considered a key component of future planning. Authorities want infrastructure growth without harming the cityโs ecology.
Officials believe the new avenues will transform traffic movement in Islamabad. The projects are expected to support economic activity and mobility. Residents are likely to benefit from reduced congestion and improved travel times.

