The Punjab government has ratified the application to construct a new underpass in the Saddar area of Rawalpindi on the Mall Road. This is done to reduce traffic blockage in one of the city’s busiest locations. The project aims to make Mall Road signal-free, ensuring a smoother and more efficient traffic flow for daily commuters.
Officials claimed the underpass will be a double-barrel structure extending from TM Chowk to MH Chowk. Construction is set to begin on February 17, with a two-month completion deadline. A dedicated sidewalk will also be built for pedestrians to ensure their safety.
Rawalpindi Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Beenish Fatima, while speaking to Dawn, confirmed that Mall Road will be completely closed from MH Chowk to TM Chowk during the construction period. The Rawalpindi City Traffic Police have created a strategy for managing traffic issues. Under this plan, 150 traffic personnel will be deployed in various key locations to guide motorists and guarantee a smooth traffic flow.
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Additionally, a traffic police spokesperson stated that several measures have been taken to divert traffic to alternative routes. Vehicles traveling from MH Chowk to TM Chowk will be redirected to Haider Road, which runs parallel to Mall Road, allowing them to connect easily to Murree Road and Kutchery Chowk.
CTO Beenish Fatima urged citizens to adhere to the traffic police’s instructions and reach out in case of any confusion. Fatima emphasized that while the project may cause temporary inconvenience, its long-term benefits will be significant. Once completed, the underpass will not only reduce congestion on Mall Road but also ease traffic flow in surrounding areas.
To ensure public awareness, the city traffic police have already distributed 2,000 guideline pamphlets and will continue efforts to keep citizens informed. Motorists are requested to use alternative routes, follow traffic rules, and cooperate with the traffic police during the construction phase. The authorities have assured that every possible step will be taken to prioritize the safety and convenience of the public.
For further guidance or emergency assistance, citizens can contact the city traffic police, who remain committed to facilitating a hassle-free transition during this crucial infrastructure development.