Rawalpindi: The transformation of Saddar’s commercial hub continues as the first phase of the Underground Cabling and Beautification Project has been completed, with preparations underway for the second phase. The news originates from a March 10 article.
To proceed with the next stage, as shared in the details, a funding request of PKR 1.5 billion has been sent to the Military Lands and Cantonments Department (MLCD) and the Ministry of Defence for approval. The Rawalpindi Cantonment Board (RCB) has been working on this project in two phases to enhance infrastructure and aesthetics in the area.
The first phase, completed for PKR 1.2 billion, focused on Bank Road, converting it into a pedestrian-friendly zone with improved facilities such as modern lighting, uniform signage, wider footpaths, decorative tiling, benches, and public amenities.
The second phase aims to expand these improvements to other key roads and markets, including Adamjee Road, Kashmir Road, Murree Road, Saddar Haathi Chowk, Hospital Road, and several bazaars. Former RCB Chief Engineer Abdul Rahim Sheikh and Senior Engineer Abdul Samad Khan oversaw the planning.
Since the next phase covers a wider area, it is expected to take more than a year to complete, though efforts will be made to expedite the process. According to RCB spokesperson Rasheed Saqib, work will begin once the required funds are approved and released.
In addition to this, other urban development projects are also in progress, including plans for underground pedestrian crossings at TM Chowk and Mall Plaza Chowk, a signal-free U-turn at Shalimar Chowk, and an underground pedestrian street near AFIC and the Medicine Market. These projects, with a combined budget of PKR 4.38 billion, are expected to be completed within a few months.
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