ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has accepted a bid worth approximately Rs. 1.45 billion for construction of the Kashmir Chowk underpass in Islamabad, with formal work expected to begin after September 27.
The contract was awarded against an estimated tender cost of Rs. 1.486 billion. Preparatory activities are already underway at the site as the authority moves toward the start of the main construction phase.
Pre-Construction Work Underway
Initial work includes clearing the project area, planning traffic diversions and coordinating the relocation of utility services. These preparations are intended to minimize disruptions and allow construction activities to proceed once the project formally begins.
The CDA has indicated that the underpass will be executed on a fast-track basis. While the tender documents provide a 90-day completion period, the authority is targeting completion in approximately two months.
The accelerated timeline will depend on site conditions, utility relocation, traffic management and the contractor’s ability to maintain the planned construction schedule.
Underpass Planned at Kashmir Chowk
The project is located at Kashmir Chowk on Murree Road, also known as Dhokri Chowk, near Islamabad Club.
Under the proposed traffic arrangement, vehicles travelling from the Serena side toward Rawalpindi will use the underpass, while traffic heading toward Murree will continue through the road above it.
The project is intended to improve traffic movement through the intersection by providing a separate route for through traffic.
The design was prepared by NESPAK’s Lahore team. CDA officials have also emphasized completing the project within the approved cost and avoiding unnecessary design changes that could increase expenditure.
Once construction begins, commuters and businesses around Kashmir Chowk may experience temporary traffic diversions and other disruptions during the construction period. The final completion date will depend on the progress of work and the implementation of the planned fast-track schedule.
