RAWALPINDI: Nine major road development projects in Rawalpindi have been deferred due to funding constraints. The schemes have been placed in the red zone until December 31, 2027.
The projects cover road rehabilitation, carpeting and widening. They also include other local infrastructure work. The schemes were part of the development programme but have now been removed from the Annual Development Programme.
The projects were put on hold because of limited development funds. Officials have also indicated that project costs could increase significantly if the schemes are revived later. Higher construction costs may affect the original estimates.
Several major roads are included in the deferred projects. The Khayaban-i-Sir Syed Road scheme involves rehabilitation of a 1.6-kilometre stretch. Its estimated cost was Rs. 213 million.
The Bokra Road project covers around 1.5 kilometres. It had an estimated cost of Rs. 226 million. The Fifth Road project covers about 1.74 kilometres and was estimated at Rs. 138 million.
Another deferred scheme covers Rawal Road. The project involves a two-kilometre stretch from Ali Nawaz Intersection to Murree Road. Its estimated cost was Rs. 241 million.
The Chandni Chowk to Commercial Market Road project covers around 0.8 kilometres. It was estimated to cost Rs. 115 million. The Railway Workshop Road project covers about 1.2 kilometres and had an estimated cost of Rs. 247 million.
Projects for China Market to Gordon College Road and Satellite Town 4-B Road have also been dropped from the current development programme. Officials cited the shortage of funds as the reason for the decision.
The delay could push the road improvement work to a later period. The final cost may also change if the projects are reapproved in the future.
Other development schemes have also faced delays due to budget constraints. These include projects for healthcare facilities and hospitals. Some plans for new medical facilities and building expansions have also been placed in the red zone.
The deferred road projects remain subject to future funding and government decisions. Their implementation will depend on the availability of development funds and revised project approvals.
