The cost of the Kutchery Chowk remodeling project is set to increase from Rs. 14 billion to Rs. 19 billion, as the Communication and Works Department prepares to submit a revised PC-I to the Planning and Development Board for approval within the next few days.
A senior official of the Punjab Highway Department confirmed that authorities have finalized the revised PC-I and will forward it shortly for formal approval.
The official said several factors contributed to the cost escalation, including the addition of pedestrian bridges costing over Rs. 1.5 billion, expanded land acquisition to widen roads and curves, aesthetic upgrades to underpasses and flyovers, and the relocation of utility services along a dedicated service corridor.
He added that engineers made minor adjustments to the design of roads, underpasses, and flyovers to improve traffic flow. The overall design remains unchanged, but authorities widened key sections to enhance functionality.
Work on the project began in October 2025 with an initial deadline of April 30. Punjab Highway Department Superintendent Engineer Ashfaq Sulehri confirmed that the project cost has reached Rs. 19 billion and that the Communication and Works Department will submit the revised PC-I to the Planning and Development Board for approval.
He said more than 80 percent of the work has been completed and authorities do not plan any further changes to the project.
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