Rawalpindi: The divisional administration has begun acquiring land for the Rs5 billion Thalian Interchange, a major component of the Rawalpindi Ring Road project, with construction expected to start next week.
Officials said an additional 358 kanals of land near the motorway will be acquired after revisions to the project design, which had originally earmarked 557 kanals for the interchange. Section 14 has been invoked to expedite the acquisition process.
Divisional Commissioner Aamer Khattak chaired a meeting to address issues related to residential and other structures located within the project area. Authorities aim to resolve these matters promptly to prevent delays in the construction timeline.
The Thalian Interchange is projected to accommodate more than 18,000 vehicles per day, linking the Ring Road with the motorway and easing traffic movement across the region. The overall Rawalpindi Ring Road scheme, now estimated at Rs47 billion, will span 38.3 kilometres and include five interchanges along a six-lane, controlled-access corridor designed for speeds of up to 120 km/h.
Preparatory work by the Frontier Works Organisation is already in progress. Around 28 kilometres of asphalt surfacing has been completed, while work on other interchanges and overpasses continues. Installation of lighting, lampposts, and jersey barriers has begun, and water channel construction is expected to conclude within two weeks.
Authorities are also considering a toll collection system similar to that of the Lahore Ring Road, with a proposed fee of Rs80 per vehicle. A summary outlining the toll model is expected to be submitted to the Punjab government for approval next week.
Officials describe the Thalian Interchange as a critical link that will significantly improve regional connectivity, traffic management, and mobility for both local residents and intercity travellers.
