Rawalpindi: The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) has proposed constructing 10 shops within the Fawara Chowk Parking Plaza to address parking issues in the downtown area, as claimed in a news article on March 11.
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As disclosed in the details, the RDA considered adding two storeys to the plaza but dismissed the idea due to technical challenges. The basement of the plaza was converted into a shelter home by the Punjab government in 2019, leading to increased parking on main roads.
Due to space constraints for expanding the plaza, the RDA now plans to utilise the area for commercial purposes, intending to construct shops facing Fawara Chowk. The plaza, originally designed for six storeys, was halted at three due to financial limitations. With only roadside space for about 200 vehicles and the need for parking for around 1,200 vehicles, the RDA is exploring alternative solutions.
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Additionally, the district administration is considering constructing three new parking plazas in different areas of the city, with plans to use their rooftops for commercial ventures. The proposal for the shop construction is set to undergo approval processes, with work expected to commence in the upcoming fiscal year.