ISLAMABAD: Construction of the Kashmir Chowk Underpass has reached 78 percent completion after 20 days of work, according to officials who briefed Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi during his latest inspection of the project. The development marks significant progress towards the government’s target of completing the underpass within its original 30-day schedule.
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is overseeing construction of the underpass, which is intended to improve traffic flow at the busy Kashmir Chowk junction and strengthen connectivity between Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
Officials informed the minister that several finishing activities remain before the project can be completed. These include road surfacing, asphalt work, installation of lighting and landscaping around the underpass. The available update does not specify how much time each remaining activity will require.
During the visit, Naqvi also announced plans to plant approximately 6,000 trees around the project area as part of efforts to improve its surroundings. Further details about the planting schedule and implementation have not been provided.
The underpass is expected to make travel more convenient for motorists heading towards Murree and Muzaffarabad, while helping reduce traffic delays around the junction. Improved road connectivity could also benefit nearby residential and commercial areas, although any direct impact on property values remains uncertain.
Despite reaching 78 percent completion, the underpass has not yet been confirmed as fully completed or opened to traffic. Motorists should continue following traffic diversions and wait for an official announcement regarding the opening date.
The remaining construction work and completion of lighting, road surfacing and landscaping will be important in determining whether the project meets its 30-day deadline.
