Rawalpindi Ring Road Expected to Open Within a Month as Final Construction Nears Completion

The much-anticipated Rawalpindi Ring Road project is expected to open to traffic within the next month as final construction work enters its last phase, according to officials.

The Rs47 billion infrastructure project stretches approximately 38.3 kilometers, connecting Baanth on Grand Trunk Road with Thalian on the Motorway, and is designed to improve traffic flow while reducing congestion in and around Rawalpindi.

Final Construction Work Underway

Officials say the main roadway has been completed, while work continues on several remaining components, including interchange ramps, drainage systems, fencing, and roadside infrastructure.

Construction is currently underway on interchange ramps at Chakri, Khasala, and Chak Beli Khan, which are expected to be completed within the next one to two weeks. Drainage structures are also being installed at selected locations to improve water management during the monsoon season.

Fencing and Safety Features Being Installed

Work has resumed on fencing along the entire route. According to officials, around 70 percent of the concrete support pillars have already been installed, while barbed-wire fencing is being added.

The fencing is intended to improve road safety by preventing unauthorized pedestrian and vehicle crossings, similar to access control systems used on Pakistan’s motorways.

Toll Plazas and Passenger Facilities

Foundations for toll plazas have already been completed. The Punjab Ring Road Authority is expected to install computerized toll collection systems before the road officially opens.

Authorities say toll charges are likely to follow a structure similar to that used on the Lahore Ring Road, with fees applicable to private vehicles, public transport, and commercial traffic.

Additional Development Along the Route

The Ring Road will include five interchanges located at:

• Baanth
• Maira Mohra
• Khasala
• Kolian Par
• Thalian

Plans also include the development of an industrial zone alongside the route to support future economic activity.

In addition, landscaping, green belts, road signs, lighting, and lamppost installations are expected to be completed within the coming weeks.

Project Background

The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) is overseeing the project, while the Frontier Works Organisation (FWO) is serving as the construction contractor.

The project was originally planned as a 68-kilometer roadway but was later revised to a 38.3-kilometer alignment after reviews and design changes. Construction experienced delays over the years due to administrative and legal matters before work resumed.

Officials say the Punjab government will announce the official opening date once all remaining work and safety inspections have been completed.