Rawalpindi Ring Road Costs Surge to Rs50.4 Billion Amid Toll Plaza Delays

RAWALPINDI: The cost of the Rawalpindi Ring Road project has escalated to Rs50.4 billion, marking the third increase since construction began, yet the toll plazas remain unfinished. Officials assert that the road will be opened to traffic in the first week of November.

The Provincial Development Working Party (PDWP) approved the revised project cost at a meeting in Lahore last week, with assurances that there will be no further increases. The 38.3-kilometer road has seen the acquisition of 8,992 kanals of land at a cost of Rs6.7 billion, which is not included in the overall project budget.

This ongoing delay in completing the toll plazas raises concerns among local residents and commuters who are eager for improved transportation infrastructure. The project, initially budgeted at Rs33 billion, has faced scrutiny over its rising costs, with the PDWP previously rejecting a proposal for Rs51 billion.

Looking ahead, officials indicate that the installation of the electronic toll collection system will take an additional two weeks, suggesting that the project is nearing completion. Stakeholders are urged to monitor developments closely as the opening date approaches.