Delays Increase Costs Further for Rawalpindi Ring Road

The Rawalpindi Ring Road project, aimed at reducing traffic congestion and promoting economic growth in the city, has achieved 40% completion. First initiated during the Imran Khan government, the project has faced multiple delays and controversies over the years.

The revised PC-1 of Rs. 32.8 billion, required for completing the project, is still awaiting approval from the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) and the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC). Initially estimated at Rs. 26 billion, the cost increased to Rs. 39 billion due to delays and rising material prices. However, it was later brought down to Rs. 32.8 billion after cost-cutting directives.

Stretching 38.8 km from Banth Mor on GT Road to the Thalian Interchange on the motorway, the project has a completion deadline of June 2025. However, over half the work remains unfinished, and carpeting of the route has not started yet, raising concerns about further delays.

The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) awarded the project contract to the Frontier Works Organization (FWO) at an initial cost of Rs. 26 billion. Delays have increased the cost by Rs. 12.8 billion, with further escalations expected, making the project a point of controversy.

The project has faced challenges for over three decades and was embroiled in a financial scandal during the Imran Khan government’s tenure. Several officials, including a former commissioner, were arrested during that period. Despite setbacks, it was decided to proceed with the project along its original route.

The Rawalpindi Ring Road project is a significant infrastructure initiative, but its timely completion remains critical to achieving its intended benefits for the city and its economy.