Islamabad: The Shaheen Chowk underpass is expected to be inaugurated next week after nearing completion, following an inspection visit by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Tuesday.
The project, whose foundation stone was laid by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on October 24, has reached 90 percent completion, with only road surfacing and finishing work remaining. During the site visit, CDA Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa briefed the interior minister on progress and confirmed that the main structural work has been completed.
Minister Naqvi said the underpass would play a key role in easing traffic congestion at the busy junction of 9th Avenue and Khyaban-i-Iqbal, commonly known as Margalla Road, which frequently experiences traffic bottlenecks. He added that the project would significantly improve commuting conditions for residents.
The project was initially approved at a cost of PKR 1.3 billion but later underwent a 15 percent increase due to design revisions, including extending the underpass barrel length from 56 metres to 85 metres. Despite being scheduled for completion in April, the project has progressed ahead of schedule and is now ready for opening.
Once operational, the Shaheen Chowk underpass is expected to enhance traffic flow and reduce congestion in one of Islamabad’s busiest corridors.
