By After years of delays and repeated deadlines, the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) has issued a firm timeline for the completion of the Rawalpindi Ring Road project, announcing that the major infrastructure initiative is expected to be finished by April this year. The update brings renewed optimism for residents and commuters who have long awaited relief from growing traffic congestion in the twin cities.
Speaking at a New Year’s press briefing at the Rawalpindi Press Club, RDA Director General Kinza Murtaza, accompanied by Chief Engineer Anwar Baran and Director Planning Tahir Mayo, confirmed that approximately 78% of construction work has already been completed. She said the remaining work is progressing steadily and the authority is committed to meeting the announced deadline.
Phase II Planning Signals Long-Term Vision
In addition to the near completion of the first phase, DG Kinza Murtaza revealed that planning for Phase II of the Ring Road has already begun. This indicates that the RDA is looking beyond the initial stretch and developing a broader transport corridor to support future urban expansion and traffic needs.
Explaining the project’s strategic importance, she said the Ring Road will serve as a critical link between the M-2 Motorway, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) route, and Margalla Avenue, connecting through the Thalian Interchange. This connectivity is expected to significantly improve regional mobility and reduce travel time for intercity traffic.
Traffic Diversion and Commercial Zones Planned
The Ring Road corridor is also being designed as a multi-purpose development zone. According to RDA officials, plans include the establishment of a bus and truck terminal along with a wholesale fruit and vegetable market. These facilities aim to divert heavy vehicles and bulk trade away from Rawalpindi’s congested urban core.
Under the proposed traffic management plan, large buses will not be allowed to travel beyond T-Chowk, a move expected to reduce inner-city congestion and improve road safety.
Transport Policy and Accountability Measures
DG Murtaza further disclosed that a national transport policy is being formulated in coordination with relevant authorities to streamline both intercity and intra-city movement. The Rawalpindi Ring Road will act as a backbone for future transport planning across Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
Addressing governance concerns, she stated that individuals found involved in the RDA financial scandal would be removed from service once the inquiry concludes, emphasizing that internal accountability is essential for transparent execution of major public projects.
Urban Reforms and Green Initiatives
Alongside the Ring Road update, the RDA highlighted several ongoing reforms. These include making tree plantation mandatory for new housing schemes, transitioning building and commercialization files to a fully online system, and expanding the use of green electric buses, which the DG described as a successful step toward sustainable urban transport.
A Transformational Project for Rawalpindi
Once completed, the Rawalpindi Ring Road is expected to reshape traffic flow, boost economic activity, and support sustainable urban development. With a clear completion timeline and Phase II already in sight, the project is poised to become a cornerstone of future planning for the twin cities.
