Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has released a clear directive to the Capital Development Authority (CDA): complete the Murree Road underpass project within just 35 days. The order came right after when he visited the site, where construction is currently underway as part of a broader effort to tackle traffic congestion in the capital.
Naqvi emphasized that speed must not come at the cost of quality. “We desire this project completed quickly, but the work must be durable and of the highest standards,” he claimed, also stressing the requirement to ensure smooth traffic flow on alternative routes during construction to reduce inconvenience for commuters.
The Murree Road underpass is considered to be a major part of the larger Serena Interchange project and is expected to bring various improvements to Islamabad’s traffic system.
It is part of a planned signal-free corridor connecting Islamabad Airport to Murree, which is aimed at reducing congestion near major choke points like Kashmir Chowk. As per Naqvi, this development will
- Save time and fuel
- Make travel easier for tourists and residents heading to Murree
Presently, motorists are coming from Murree have to detour to Kashmir Chowk to access the Srinagar Highway. Once completed, the new underpass will provide a direct link, easing traffic flow and offering a much-needed substitute.
Read more: Work begins on new underpass to link Murree Road with Srinagar Highway
The underpass will be 479 meters long and will accommodate for three traffic lanes. Additionally, a nearby bridge is being widened, with two more lanes added on each side, and four slip roads will also be expanded to manage the expected traffic volume.
The CDA has already commenced the excavation work, and officials say progress is moving at a steady pace. CDA Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa briefed the minister on the current status, assuring that the project is on track for timely completion.
Interestingly, this underpass is being created under the same contract as the Serena Interchange — which was finished earlier this year — without floating new tenders. CDA officials say this move, approved by the board, is a legitimate time-saving step under the project’s 15% variation clause.
With the deadline looming, all eyes are now upon the CDA to deliver.