Here’s When Raja Bazaar Beautification Work Will Start

Although the main road in Raja Bazaar from Fawara Chowk to Hamilton Road has been closed to traffic for over two months, the Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation (RMC) has yet to start the promised beautification work.

In January, the area was declared a pedestrian-only zone, with RMC announcing plans to begin beautification before Eidul Fitr. However, officials now say work may be delayed until the next fiscal year due to Islamabad Electric Supply Company’s (Iesco) failure to submit cost estimates for moving electric lines underground.

While other utility departments, including WASA and SNGPL, have provided their estimates—Rs. 50 million and Rs. 30 million respectively—Iesco has yet to hire a consultant.

Deputy Commissioner Dr. Hassan Waqar Cheema said the government had approved a Rs. 170 million project to turn Raja Bazaar into a model pedestrian market, restoring its historic charm with new amenities and modern infrastructure.

Plans include installing benches, public washrooms, greenery, improved lighting, and restoration of old buildings. Authorities also intend to upgrade signage and add decorative tuff tiles.

To accommodate traffic, four parking locations have been designated: Fawara Chowk Parking Plaza, a vacant RMC plot, Namak Mandi, and near Ganjmandi Police Station. A new parking plaza is also planned on Jinnah Road, with funding requested from the Punjab government.

Officials hope to complete utility work before monsoon season and begin visible improvements soon after.