ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has launched a Rs1.4 billion project to ease traffic congestion at Kashmir Chowk, with officials targeting completion within one month. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif laid the foundation stone for the underpass on Tuesday. The project aims to improve traffic flow at one of Islamabad’s busiest junctions.
Kashmir Chowk Handles 107,000 Vehicles Daily
Around 107,000 vehicles pass through Kashmir Chowk every day. The heavy traffic often causes delays and conflicts, particularly during peak hours.
The new underpass will separate major traffic movements around the junction. One underpass will serve vehicles coming from the Serena side.
Another route will facilitate traffic travelling from Faizabad towards Murree.
The CDA will also construct four new slip roads to improve traffic distribution around the junction.
CDA Cuts Project Cost by Rs200 Million
The authority initially estimated the project at Rs1.6 billion. However, CDA reduced the cost to Rs1.4 billion through cost optimisation and planning. Around five acres of land will form part of the project. The area will support road expansion and related infrastructure.
The project will also connect with the planned expansion of lanes on the Islamabad Expressway.
Underpass Aims to Reduce Travel Time
The new infrastructure forms part of wider efforts to improve connectivity between Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
According to the CDA, integrating the underpass with other planned road improvements could reduce travel time between the two cities to around 16 to 18 minutes.
The authority has also been implementing temporary traffic management measures around Kashmir Chowk during construction. Officials have directed teams to minimise disruption for commuters.
Construction Set for Fast Completion
Although bidding documents initially set a 90-day completion period, CDA officials expect the contractor to finish the project much faster. The project is being executed by Habib Construction Services. The company has previously completed several major CDA projects, including the Serena Interchange, Murree Road underpass and Shaheen Chowk underpass.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has set a one-month target for completion.
Once completed, the Kashmir Chowk underpass is expected to provide smoother traffic movement and reduce delays for commuters travelling between Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
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