ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) plans to develop Islamabad’s 11th Avenue in two phases, with an initial focus on the section linking the E-11 Interchange with Srinagar Highway. The decision aims to prioritize a key road connection while the authority prepares for the wider infrastructure project.
The overall project covers a 7.5-kilometre stretch from Margalla Avenue to IJP Road and has received approval from the CDA’s Departmental Working Party (DWP) for a PC-I worth Rs. 24.5 billion. The proposed design includes three lanes on each side, along with approximately 17 bridges and overpasses.
First Phase to Connect E-11 with Srinagar Highway
Under the revised plan, the first phase will cover around 3.5 kilometres between the E-11 Interchange and Srinagar Highway. It will also include an interchange on Srinagar Highway to facilitate traffic movement between the two routes.
A CDA engineer said the authority had decided to divide the project into two stages during a recent meeting. The pre-tendering process is underway, and officials are aiming to formally launch the first phase within two months.
The first phase is tentatively estimated to cost between Rs. 11 billion and Rs. 12 billion, including the proposed interchange. However, this figure may change as the CDA completes its detailed cost assessment.
Expected Impact on Islamabad’s Traffic Network
Once operational, the initial section is expected to improve connectivity between Srinagar Highway and Margalla Avenue. It could also help distribute traffic across major routes and reduce pressure on some existing road connections, depending on traffic volumes and how the new link integrates with the wider network.
The full 11th Avenue project is intended to establish a continuous road corridor between Margalla Avenue and IJP Road. Its proposed bridges, overpasses and multiple lanes are designed to support traffic movement along the route.
Project Timeline Remains a Key Factor
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif laid the foundation stone for 11th Avenue in June 2023, but construction did not begin at that time. The decision to prioritize the E-11–Srinagar Highway section represents a revised approach to moving the project forward.
The next major steps include completing the cost assessment, progressing through the tendering process and confirming the construction schedule. The two-month target relates to the planned launch of the first phase, rather than a confirmed completion date.
The pace of implementation will determine when commuters can begin using the new road and when the wider corridor can deliver its intended connectivity benefits.
