ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) of Islamabad and the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) of Rawalpindi have joined forces to embark on a significant project aimed at beautifying and upgrading the IJ Principal (IJP) Road.
This collaborative effort involves the participation of private companies and the forest department to ensure its success.
According to the details, the PHA will be responsible for enhancing the aesthetics of roads on the Rawalpindi side, including the green belt service road, while the CDA will focus on beautifying the areas within the boundaries of Islamabad.
Supervised by Deputy Commissioner Hasan Waqar Cheema and under the guidance of PHA Director General Ahmed Hasan Ranjha, the project also includes the installation of advanced computerized traffic signals to streamline traffic flow.
The IJP Road serves as a crucial link between Islamabad and Rawalpindi, accommodating heavy transport from Punjab, Azad Kashmir, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Originally designed as a principal road dividing the ‘I’ and ‘J’ sectors, similar to 7th Avenue and 9th Avenue, it has experienced increased traffic volume beyond its initial capacity.
”]In addition to the aesthetic enhancements, the project incorporates afforestation efforts and potohar fruit trees will be planted, and landscaping activities will be undertaken.
The beautification endeavors will showcase sculptures and paintings depicting cultural monuments from the Potohar, Kohsar, and Punjab regions.
Moreover, European and Middle Eastern plant species will be introduced to the green belt area.
The plans also encompass the installation of benches to provide seating facilities for pedestrians, improvements in lighting infrastructure, and the inclusion of captivating sculptures aimed at engaging the interest of children.
Furthermore, nesting boxes will be strategically placed to facilitate the breeding of various species of wild birds.
To optimize the vast vacant areas along the road, small forests will be established following the Miyawaki method, a technique known for its efficient and dense afforestation practices.
As part of the comprehensive project, enclosures will be constructed along the road connecting the twin cities, enhancing safety and aesthetics simultaneously.
Source: Tribune
