PESHAWAR: The Rs. 2 billion Kabotar Chowk Underpass project in Peshawar has missed the 60-day completion target set by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, with construction and finishing work still underway.
The underpass is part of the province’s Azmat-e-Rafta development programme, which includes several road infrastructure projects aimed at improving traffic movement along major routes in Peshawar, including the Ring Road network.
Project Timeline Extends Beyond Target
Chief Minister Sohail Afridi formally launched the Kabotar Chowk Underpass project on June 4, while physical construction began on June 17.
The project was assigned a 60-day completion schedule, reflecting the government’s emphasis on completing major traffic projects within short timelines. However, the deadline has now passed without the underpass being fully completed.
Opening Delayed
Authorities had initially planned to open the underpass to traffic on September 7. The planned opening could not take place because associated road construction and finishing work had not been completed.
The latest expected opening date is October 1, although the project’s surrounding development work may continue even after traffic is allowed to use the underpass.
Work Around Kabotar Chowk
As part of the project, authorities have also taken steps to improve traffic circulation around Kabotar Chowk.
Encroachments in the surrounding area have been removed, while the adjoining service road has been widened to provide additional space for traffic movement.
These supporting works are being carried out alongside the main underpass construction and are important for the project’s overall traffic management objectives.
Part of Wider Peshawar Road Programme
The Kabotar Chowk project is included in the Azmat-e-Rafta programme, under which the provincial government has planned additional flyovers and underpasses across Peshawar.
The broader programme is intended to address congestion at key intersections and improve connectivity across major urban routes.
For commuters and businesses operating around Kabotar Chowk, the eventual opening of the underpass could change traffic patterns and accessibility in the surrounding area. The overall impact, however, will depend on completion of the remaining road and infrastructure works.
