Rawalpindi Ring Road Project Nears Completion

The Rawalpindi Ring Road project has reached a critical stage, with more than 80 percent of the overall construction already completed. Major structural components, including multiple bridges and a 22-kilometre stretch of asphalted road, are now in place, reflecting steady progress on one of Punjab’s most significant infrastructure developments.

This project is designed to ease traffic pressure on Rawalpindi’s urban roads by diverting heavy and through traffic away from congested areas. Once operational, the Rawalpindi Ring Road is expected to play a key role in improving regional connectivity and supporting economic activity around the twin cities.

• Over 80 percent construction progress achieved
• Bridges and 22 km of asphalt work completed
• Project aimed at reducing inner-city congestion

Route Details and Strategic Importance

The Rawalpindi Ring Road spans a total length of 38 kilometres, stretching from Baanth to Thalian. This route has been planned to provide an alternative corridor for vehicles traveling toward the Motorway, reducing travel time and improving traffic distribution across the region.

By linking developing areas on the outskirts of Rawalpindi, the road is also expected to open new opportunities for planned housing, commercial projects, and logistics facilities. Its strategic alignment makes it a long-term solution for traffic management rather than a short-term fix.

• Total length of 38 kilometres
• Connects Baanth with Thalian
• Supports future urban and commercial growth

Thalian Interchange and Motorway Connectivity

A major feature of the Rawalpindi Ring Road is the newly planned Thalian Interchange, which will connect the road directly to the Motorway. This interchange is intended to ensure smoother traffic flow and prevent congestion at key entry and exit points.

The construction of the Thalian Interchange was added to the project scope under the revised PC-I. Once approved, the Frontier Works Organisation will begin work, making the interchange a crucial component of the road’s overall functionality.

• Direct Motorway connectivity through Thalian Interchange
• Designed to manage high traffic volumes
• Construction to begin after PC-I approval

Revised PC-I and Increased Project Cost

The project’s revised PC-I has increased the total cost to Rs. 53 billion. This escalation reflects additional infrastructure requirements, higher construction material prices, and the inclusion of flood mitigation measures to protect the road during extreme weather conditions.

Authorities state that the revised cost is necessary to ensure long-term durability and safety. The updated PC-I is currently under review by the Punjab Planning and Development Board, which is assessing detailed justifications submitted by relevant departments.

• Revised cost set at Rs. 53 billion
• Includes flood protection and interchange construction
• Accounts for rising material costs

Construction Status Overview

Below is a snapshot of the current construction status of the Rawalpindi Ring Road, highlighting completed and pending components.

Safety Measures and Roadside Development

In addition to road construction, authorities have initiated several supporting developments. These include the installation of modern signboards, procurement of lighting systems, and plantation of six- to eight-foot trees along the route to improve environmental conditions.

Flood prevention infrastructure is also being integrated into the design to reduce risks during heavy rainfall. These measures aim to enhance road safety while ensuring uninterrupted traffic flow throughout the year.

• Modern signage and lighting systems
• Large-scale tree plantation plan
• Advanced flood mitigation features

Traffic Impact and Daily Usage Expectations

Officials estimate that the Rawalpindi Ring Road will facilitate smoother movement for more than 18,000 vehicles entering the Motorway every day. This is expected to significantly reduce congestion on existing city roads and improve overall travel efficiency.

By diverting long-distance and heavy vehicles away from urban centers, the project will also contribute to better road safety and reduced travel stress for daily commuters.

• Over 18,000 vehicles expected daily
• Reduced congestion on city roads
• Improved safety for commuters

Approval Process and Expected Completion Timeline

The Punjab Planning and Development Board is currently reviewing responses from the Project Management Unit and the Rawalpindi Development Authority. These responses address earlier objections related to cost escalation and project scope adjustments.

Once the revised PC-I is approved, remaining works, including the Thalian Interchange, will proceed without delay. Authorities expect the Rawalpindi Ring Road project to be completed by the end of April, subject to timely approvals.

• PC-I under active review
• Objections formally addressed
• Completion targeted by end of April

Key Project Facts at a Glance

FAQs

What is the current completion status of the Rawalpindi Ring Road?
The project is over 80 percent complete, with major bridges and a 22-kilometre asphalt section already finished.

Why was the Rawalpindi Ring Road project cost increased?
The cost rose due to the addition of the Thalian Interchange, flood mitigation measures, and higher construction material prices.

What is the purpose of the Thalian Interchange?
The interchange will connect the Rawalpindi Ring Road directly to the Motorway to manage traffic flow and reduce congestion.

When is the Rawalpindi Ring Road expected to be completed?
The project is expected to be completed by the end of April, following approval of the revised PC-I.