Toll Plaza Installation Remains Final Major Task
The Rawalpindi Ring Road project has reached 98 percent completion, with only the installation of the toll plaza remaining before the road opens for traffic.
Officials shared the progress update during a review meeting chaired by Rawalpindi Divisional Commissioner Salman Ghani.
They said the Punjab Ring Road Authority will install and manage the toll plaza. The authority will also collect toll fees according to government-approved rates and oversee traffic operations on the highway.
Major Construction Work Completed
The 38.3-kilometre Ring Road has completed most of its major construction activities.
Officials confirmed that the main carriageway, flyovers, subways, interchanges, bridges, and other civil infrastructure are ready.
Authorities have also completed road safety work. This includes installing barriers, road markings, signboards, streetlights, and other necessary facilities.
The Punjab government has already released more than Rs29 billion for the project. Officials expect the remaining funds within the next one to two weeks.
Authorities Focus on Final Preparations
During the meeting, Commissioner Salman Ghani directed officials to complete the remaining work quickly.
He also instructed authorities to speed up landscaping and tree plantation activities along both sides of the Ring Road.
Moreover, officials were asked to establish a dedicated policing and traffic management system before the road becomes operational.
Authorities also confirmed that construction work on the Thalian Interchange will begin through a separate project after the Ring Road opens.
Project Expected to Reduce City Traffic Pressure
Once operational, the Rawalpindi Ring Road will help divert heavy traffic away from the city.
The project aims to reduce congestion on major routes, including GT Road, Peshawar Road, and Murree Road.
Officials expect the highway to reduce travel time, lower fuel consumption, and help control air pollution caused by heavy vehicle movement.
The completion of the Ring Road is expected to improve transportation links and provide smoother travel for residents and commuters in Rawalpindi and surrounding areas.
