GPO Underpass in Rawalpindi to Be Completed by June 30 Amid Ongoing Traffic Challenges

The GPO Underpass project on The Mall in Rawalpindi, which has been under construction for several months, is now scheduled for completion by June 30, according to divisional administration officials. Initially set to be completed by May 31 as per directives from Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the delay has not only impacted traffic flow but also postponed key visits, including the CM’s planned visit to Rawalpindi on June 2.

The underpass, being built at a cost of Rs. 4.6 billion, aims to improve traffic circulation in one of Rawalpindi’s busiest commercial zones. However, the ongoing construction has created severe traffic congestion in the Saddar area, forcing motorists to rely on Haider Road as the primary alternative route.

A senior official from the Communication and Works Department confirmed that one side of the double-barrel underpass has been carpeted, with the second lane expected to be completed by Saturday. In parallel, construction on the service roads along The Mall is scheduled to begin Sunday and will take approximately one week to complete.

To mitigate flooding and waterlogging during the monsoon season, a drainage system has been installed. The line redirects rainwater to a nullah on Sarwar Road near Punjsarki Chowk, helping to future-proof the infrastructure.

Despite the completion of Sarwar Road, which is being used as a temporary detour, managing traffic alongside heavy construction has proven challenging. Authorities continue to urge motorists to exercise patience and plan their routes accordingly until the project is fully completed.

Once operational, the GPO Underpass is expected to significantly reduce traffic congestion on The Mall and streamline vehicular movement in central Rawalpindi. The administration remains hopeful that the project will be delivered by the revised deadline, restoring normalcy to daily commuting in the area.

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