RAWALPINDI: A new deadline of June 15 has been set for the completion of the Rs47 billion worth of Rawalpindi Ring Road as the physical progress on the project has reached 85 per cent.
Earlier, the Punjab government had set the deadline of May 31, but it was extended to June 15 at a meeting held with Commissioner Abdul Aamer Khattak in the chair on Monday.
A senior official of the divisional administration told Dawn that the meeting was informed that 15 per cent work was pending on the project and the government planned to divert all heavy traffic passing through the city to Ring Road soon after its opening.
The review meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioner Dr Hassan Waqar Cheema, assistant commissioners and heads of concerned departments.
15pc work pending and govt wants to divert all heavy traffic to Ring Road soon after its opening, says official
During the meeting, a detailed review was conducted on the progress of the project, traffic management, relocation of commercial activities and urban facilities.
The commissioner directed the concerned departments to ensure an effective ban on the entry of heavy traffic in Rawalpindi city during daytime to reduce traffic congestion and environmental pollution.
It was noted that most heavy traffic enters Rawalpindi from Taxila and Attock sides, causing severe issues in urban areas.
In view of this situation, a block connectivity route for heavy traffic will be established between Rawat, Chak Beli Road and GT Road, so that heavy vehicles can be directly diverted to the Ring Road and prevented from entering the city.
The commissioner further directed that only small vehicles would be allowed for loading and unloading activities within the city, while large containers and heavy vehicles would be required to use the Ring Road.
The meeting was informed through a briefing that plans were underway to gradually relocate the vegetable market, fruit market, bus terminals, factories, warehouses and other major commercial activities to areas along the Ring Road.
Various junctions and economic zones will also be developed alongside the Ring Road, which will promote commercial activities and reduce pressure on the urban population.
Mr Khattak stated that regular meetings would be held with traders and relevant stakeholders regarding the relocation of commercial centres and transport terminals currently operating within the city.
He said that the mega project would prove to be a game changer for Rawalpindi division, significantly reducing traffic problems besides boosting industrial, commercial and economic activities.
The commissioner directed the relevant institutions to complete all administrative and operational matters related to the project
on time so that the Ring Road can be made operational after mid-June.
He added that, in accordance with the directives of the Punjab government, efforts would be made to ensure a modern traffic system, improved infrastructure and organised urban facilities for the city.
Published in Dawn, May 12th, 2026
