RAWALPINDI: The Rawalpindi Ring Road project has seen a major increase in its estimated cost after years of delays and revisions. The project’s cost has reportedly risen to more than Rs. 53 billion from the original estimate of Rs. 22.82 billion.
The Ring Road spans around 38.3 kilometres and is designed as a six-lane road. The construction contract was awarded in March 2022. Since then, several changes and delays have affected the project’s timeline and overall cost.
According to sources in the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA), around 90% of the construction work has now been completed. Work is continuing on the remaining sections as authorities seek to bring the project toward completion.
The Punjab government has announced multiple completion targets for the Ring Road. Preparations for its inauguration have also been made on more than one occasion, but the project has not yet been formally completed.
The rising cost has drawn attention because of the project’s size and importance to Rawalpindi’s transport network. The additional expenditure has also increased scrutiny of the project’s planning, revisions and implementation process.
An inquiry into alleged changes to the original Ring Road design was launched in July. Additional Chief Secretary Ahmed Raza Sarwar reportedly sought the complete project record as part of the review.
Questions have also emerged over approvals and related development matters. These include No Objection Certificates, approved layouts, access roads and other clearances. Some related disputes have also reached the courts.
The project has faced controversy over design changes since 2022. The issue previously resulted in the transfer of several senior officials, including former Rawalpindi Commissioner Muhammad Mehmood and Deputy Commissioner Anwar-ul-Haq.
With most construction reportedly complete, attention is now focused on finishing the remaining work and resolving outstanding administrative and legal matters. The final cost and completion timeline will depend on the remaining construction, approvals and outcome of the ongoing review.
