Home » Construction » Islamabad — Capital City With a Rapidly Advancing Infrastructure
Metro Bus & Its Multiple Routes
Islamabad Safe City Project
Major Projects to Ease Traffic Flow
City Islamabad App
Islamabad is recognised as one of the most beautiful cities in the world — and rightly so. As the administrative capital of Pakistan, it enjoys a masterfully planned infrastructure with the natural beauty of Margalla Hills as a backdrop. The charm of the capital city’s skyline is further uplifted by the presence of iconic government buildings.
Jointly administered by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Islamabad Capital Territory Administration (ICTA), the metropolis boasts a well-established network of roads and delightful horticulture features. In this blog, we’ll talk about all the latest infrastructure developments in Islamabad that are paving the way for the city’s promising future.
The Latest Infrastructure Developments in Islamabad
From the emergence of new expressways and flyovers to the advancement of public transportation and the incorporation of cutting-edge traffic safety and management systems, the capital city is now more advanced than ever. Now, without further ado, let’s learn about some prominent infrastructure updates of recent times.
Bus Rapid Transit System (aka Metro Bus Islamabad)
Stretching over 83 kilometres and based on different bus lines, Metro Bus Islamabad caters to commuters in the twin cities. It provides a safe, comfortable and reliable commute to the residents of both Rawalpindi and Islamabad. This Bus Rapid Transit System has recently been upgraded to four routes that are served by multiple bus lines.
It is pertinent to mention that this mass transport project in Islamabad was constructed and launched in two phases. In the first phase, the Red Line was inaugurated in 2015. Afterwards, seven years later, the second phase was launched earlier this year. Extending the route in multiple directions, Orange Line, Blue Line and Green Line were introduced in the capital city.
The state-of-the-art BRT system Metro is managed by the Punjab Masstransit Authority (PMA). It is the same authority that administers Metro Bus Lahore and Metro Bus Multan. Counted among the most advanced infrastructure developments in Islamabad, this Bus Rapid Transit System is based on a fleet of the latest air-conditioned buses.
Islamabad Metrobus timings are from 6.15 am to 10 pm daily. The fare of a metro bus ride in Islamabad starts at PKR 30 only. It is probably the most budget-friendly way to enjoy an air-conditioned ride in the capital city.
Bus Lines and Route Details
Among all four routes of the Islamabad Metrobus, the Orange Line is the longest one, despite having the lowest number of bus stops. Now, without further ado, let’s learn more about the BRT network.
Red Line Route: Saddar to Pak Secretariat
Length: 22.5 km
Number of Stations: 24
Orange Line Route: Peshawar Morr to Airport
Length: 25.6 km
Number of Stations: 7
Blue Line Route: PIMS to Gulberg
Length: 20 km
Number of Stations: 13
Green Line Route: PIMS to Barakahu
Length: 15.5 km
Number of Stations: 8
Safe City Project
The Safe City Project is one of the most prominent infrastructure projects in Islamabad that was introduced in 2010 to effectively manage the traffic system as well as to keep a check on all the unlawful activities happening on the streets. Overspeeding is also monitored and controlled via the Safe City project. The traffic police penalise anyone found guilty of violating the defined speed limit in the city.
Under this initiative, thousands of cameras were installed across the capital, chiefly at the entry and exit points of all the major expressways. The project is administered by the Islamabad Police with the help of a state-of-the-art Command and Control centre.
Cutting-edge technologies like the Intelligent Video Surveillance and Vehicle Management System, and Automatic Number Plate Recognition System are enhancing the effectiveness of the Capital Safe City Project.
Moreover, in a recent development, the authorities installed and repaired hundreds of cameras to upgrade the operational scope of the Safe City Project. Drone cameras also serve the Islamabad Safe City Project. On a side note, if you want to learn more about the scope of drone technology in Pakistan, check out this blog.
Modern Projects to Ease Traffic Flow in Islamabad
Based on multiple merging lanes, an underpass and a flyover, Rawal Dam Interchange is an upcoming infrastructure project in Islamabad that would facilitate the traffic coming in from multiple roads including Murree Road, Club Road and Park Road. The work on the Rawal Chowk Underpass has recently been completed. Illuminated in multiple colours, the route of the underpass looks very delightful at night.
The CDA is currently working on some key projects to ease the traffic flow in the capital city, especially during peak hours. Many infrastructure developments are in the pipeline including the Rawal Dam flyover, Inter-Junction Principal (IJP) Road improvement project, Islamabad Expressway expansion, 7th Avenue flyover, 9th Avenue & 10th Avenue flyovers, Bhara Kahu Interchange, and other projects.
The construction of these interchanges will result in the emergence of a signal-free corridor, connecting the north end with the south end of the city without any interruption, making it one of the latest infrastructure developments in Islamabad that holds great significance for commuters.
City Islamabad App
Allowing users to access a myriad of public services with just a few taps, City Islamabad App is redefining the concept of digital convenience. The app is relevant for everyone living in the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT).
From reporting security issues to applying for a new passport or paying your vehicle tax, this mobile application facilitates you in multiple aspects. It is probably the first imperative step towards the smart future of Islamabad. Whether you are an Android or an iOS user, you can easily download the City Islamabad App on your smartphone.
What Are Your Thoughts About These Infrastructural Upgrades in Islamabad?
Here we’ll end our comprehensive overview of the latest infrastructure developments in Islamabad. How do you think these upgrades will impact the livability and future of the city? Feel free to share your thoughts with us at blog@zameen.com. We’d be more than happy to hear from you.
On a side note, if you are a real estate investor in the twin cities, you may like reading the following blogs:
- Most Popular Areas to Buy Property in Islamabad
- Top Areas to Look for Apartments in the Capital City
- Where to Look for Residential Plots in Islamabad?
Looking for more informative lifestyle guides and property updates, stay tuned to Zameen Blog — Pakistan’s No.1 real estate blog. You can also subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on Facebook to stay updated with all our latest content.
*SM Cover Credits: FB/CDA