Rawalpindi: The Punjab government has approved the construction of a double-barrel underpass on Mall Road in the Saddar area, as reported by a news source on February 12.
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According to the details, the project, which will stretch from TM Chowk to MH Chowk, is designed to make Mall Road signal-free and improve traffic flow in the garrison city. The construction of the underpass is set to begin on February 17, with a target completion timeline of two months. The project will also include the development of a dedicated sidewalk for pedestrians, ensuring safety and convenience for those on foot.
Once completed, the underpass is expected to significantly reduce traffic bottlenecks on Mall Road and ease congestion in surrounding areas. However, during the construction period, Mall Road will be closed to all traffic between MH Chowk and TM Chowk.
To minimise disruptions, the Rawalpindi City Traffic Police have devised a comprehensive alternative traffic plan. Approximately 150 traffic police personnel will be deployed at key locations to manage the flow of vehicles and ensure smooth movement.
Under the plan, traffic traveling from MH Chowk to TM Chowk will be redirected to Haider Road, which runs parallel to Mall Road. From there, vehicles can easily access Murree Road and Kutchery Chowk. The traffic police have urged motorists to follow the designated alternative routes and adhere to traffic regulations during the construction period.
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To keep citizens informed, the city traffic police has distributed 2,000 informational materials outlining the alternative routes and guidelines. Rawalpindi Chief Traffic Officer Beenish Fatima emphasised the importance of public cooperation, urging residents to follow traffic instructions and contact the police in case of confusion or emergencies.