Rawalpindi Ring Road route construction work has been completed over 90 percent, and the project is now ready to become operational by June 15, officials said.
The 38.6-kilometre Rawalpindi Ring Road project, considered a missing link in the city's traffic network, has entered its final phase of completion. Officials said full carpeting of the road has been completed, while all four interchanges at Baanth, Chak Beli Khan, Adiala, and Chakri are now ready. The remaining work involves minor sewerage tasks and finishing touches, which are being completed on a priority basis.
According to officials, the Ring Road will initially be opened to traffic through the GT Road Baanth Interchange. Motorway access will be provided even before the completion of the Thalian Interchange, which is part of Phase II of the project and will be completed at a later stage.
Sources in the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA), the agency overseeing the project, said that more than 90 percent of the work has been completed, excluding the Thalian Interchange. The total cost of the project stands at Rs46.64 billion, including funds allocated for additional land acquisition under Phase II.
Officials added that the formal inauguration date will be approved by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. Once the Thalian Interchange is completed, motorists will also be able to access the motorway through that route, while the Baanth Interchange will continue to remain operational.
Meanwhile, discussions are ongoing regarding the development of industrial estates along the Ring Road corridor. The Punjab Industrial Estates Development and Management Company (PIEDMC) has approved the proposal, although final approval from the Punjab Assembly is still pending. After approval, land will be acquired and allotted to industrialists through the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce at concessional rates.
Business leaders, including Malik Shahid Ghafoor Paracha, have welcomed the initiative and described it as a game changer for the region. They believe the project will accelerate development, boost economic activity, and create new employment opportunities in Rawalpindi.
