RAWALPINDI:The installation of girders for the longest section of the Soan Bridge, part of the Rawalpindi Ring Road (RRR) project, officially commenced on Thursday, marking a pivotal moment in this major infrastructure endeavor aimed at reducing traffic congestion in Rawalpindi.
During the inauguration, Kinza Murtaza, Director-General of the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA), highlighted that this significant development represents a key achievement in constructing the multi-lane expressway designed to alleviate traffic and enhance connectivity in the region.
The girder installation, which spans the Soan River, serves as a critical element in completing this essential infrastructure project. “Concluding the girder is a vital advancement in the Ring Road Rawalpindi project,” stated the DG, emphasizing that upon completion, the Ring Road would not only mitigate congestion in Rawalpindi but also offer a safer, more efficient pathway for travelers throughout the area.
Murtaza tasked the relevant personnel with ensuring the project’s timely and effective execution, underscoring the importance of adhering to the established deadlines without compromising quality or standards. “We are dedicated to ensuring that the flyovers are constructed to the highest quality for the safety and convenience of the public,” she affirmed.
The RRR project, a flagship initiative from the RDA, aims to improve the city’s transportation infrastructure by linking major routes, highways, and industrial zones. This project will provide an alternative to the already crowded city center, ultimately helping to decrease travel times and enhance traffic flow.
The RDA is collaborating closely with relevant parties to ensure smooth progress and strict adherence to safety protocols throughout the construction phase. With the girder installation for the Soan Bridge now underway, the project is expected to be completed in the coming months, significantly improving Rawalpindi’s infrastructure and supporting regional economic growth.
Earlier this month, the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) of the federal government approved the revised Project Concept-1 (PC-1) for the initiative, which will be discussed in an upcoming meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC).
The RRR project is projected for completion by June 2025; however, current work progress has been notably slow. The Ring Road will stretch 38.3 kilometers, starting from Banth on the Grand Trunk Road (GT) and concluding at the Thallian Motorway Interchange. An RDA official reported that approximately 37% of the construction has been completed, and work is anticipated to accelerate following the approval of the revised PC-1.
