By Following the recent inauguration of the T-Chowk flyover, Islamabad is preparing to open another major infrastructure project aimed at easing traffic congestion in the federal capital. The Shaheen Chowk underpass, located at one of Islamabad’s busiest intersections, is expected to be inaugurated in the coming days, according to officials familiar with the project.
The underpass is being constructed at the critical junction of 9th Avenue and Khyaban-i-Iqbal, an area that experiences heavy traffic volumes on a daily basis. Due to its strategic location, the intersection often faces long traffic queues during peak hours, affecting commuters traveling between key residential and commercial sectors of the city.
Design Revisions to Improve Traffic Flow
Earlier this month, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) introduced significant design changes to the project while construction was already under way. Officials said the scope of the project was expanded to ensure better traffic handling capacity and long-term efficiency, particularly as traffic volumes in Islamabad continue to rise.
One of the most notable changes includes extending the length of the underpass barrel from 56 meters to 85 meters, allowing for smoother and uninterrupted vehicle movement. In addition, the CDA added an extra lane to the roundabout, which is expected to significantly reduce bottlenecks at the intersection.
To further enhance accessibility, two new U-turns were incorporated into the revised design. These additions will provide motorists with improved route options and reduce unnecessary diversions, contributing to safer and more organized traffic flow.
Cost and Regulatory Compliance
A CDA official confirmed that all design revisions were carried out within the 15 percent cost-revision limit permitted under Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) rules. This ensured that the project remained financially compliant while still benefiting from critical functional improvements.
The Rs. 1.3 billion Shaheen Chowk underpass project was formally launched when Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif laid its foundation stone on October 24. Although the original PC-I document set April as the project’s completion deadline, officials stated that construction progress has remained strong.
Ahead of Schedule and Nearing Completion
Due to the accelerated pace of work, the project is now ahead of schedule and close to being opened for traffic. Once operational, the Shaheen Chowk underpass is expected to significantly reduce congestion, cut travel times, and improve daily commuting for thousands of motorists.
The project reflects Islamabad’s ongoing focus on upgrading road infrastructure to accommodate growing traffic demands and improve urban mobility across the capital.
