The Kashmir Chowk Underpass project in Islamabad has achieved 78% construction progress within just 20 days, bringing the major road infrastructure project closer to completion, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has announced.
During a visit to the construction site, the interior minister reviewed the pace of development and directed the relevant authorities to complete the remaining work within the scheduled 30-day timeline.
Officials briefed Naqvi that construction was progressing rapidly, with road development, asphalt laying, horticulture and other finishing activities underway. Workers are also installing light poles and lighting fixtures as the project moves towards its final stages.
The project is expected to improve traffic movement around Kashmir Chowk, one of Islamabad’s important road junctions, while providing easier access to routes connecting Rawalpindi, Murree and Muzaffarabad.
Construction Progress Reaches 78% in 20 Days
According to the briefing given to the interior minister, 78% of the Kashmir Chowk Underpass construction work has been completed during the first 20 days of the project.
Naqvi expressed satisfaction with the construction pace and instructed officials to accelerate the remaining activities without compromising the scheduled completion target.
The remaining work includes road construction, asphalt laying, horticultural development and installation of lighting infrastructure.
The authorities have indicated that the project will be completed within the stipulated 30-day period, although the remaining construction and finishing work will need to stay on schedule to meet that target.
The government has placed emphasis on the timely completion of the project, which is part of wider efforts to improve Islamabad’s road infrastructure and address traffic congestion at important intersections.
6,000 Trees to Be Planted Around Underpass
Alongside construction activities, the government is planning additional landscaping and beautification work around the underpass.
Naqvi directed the relevant authorities to improve the surrounding area through greenery, landscaping and decorative lighting. He announced that approximately 6,000 trees would be planted around the project.
The plantation plan is intended to make the area greener and improve its overall appearance after construction is completed.
Officials are also installing light poles and fixtures to improve visibility and enhance the surroundings.
These measures form part of the broader development work accompanying the underpass rather than the road construction alone.
The completion of landscaping and lighting will be important in ensuring that the area is not only improved for traffic movement but also developed into a more organised urban space.
Project Aims to Reduce Traffic Congestion
The Kashmir Chowk Underpass is designed to improve traffic flow at a busy intersection connecting several important routes in Islamabad.
The project is expected to benefit motorists travelling between Rawalpindi and Islamabad, particularly those heading towards Murree and Muzaffarabad.
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has previously said that around 107,000 vehicles pass through the Kashmir Chowk junction daily, making it an important location for traffic management improvements.
The underpass is designed to provide separate traffic movements, supported by additional slip roads to improve vehicle distribution around the junction.
By separating traffic flows and reducing interruptions at the intersection, the project is expected to help minimise congestion and delays during peak commuting hours.
For residents of the twin cities, improved movement around Kashmir Chowk could make daily journeys more convenient, particularly for people travelling between residential areas, commercial centres and major connecting roads.
Underpass Part of Rs1.4 Billion Development Project
The Kashmir Chowk Underpass is being developed by the CDA at an estimated cost of Rs1.4 billion.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif performed the project’s groundbreaking ceremony on October 6, 2026, marking the beginning of construction under an accelerated one-month completion plan.
The development is part of wider infrastructure improvements aimed at addressing traffic pressure and strengthening connectivity across the federal capital.
The CDA has also highlighted the importance of maintaining construction quality, durability and safety alongside the accelerated pace of work.
The authority’s earlier project briefings indicated that the underpass was intended to reduce waiting times and improve vehicle movement at one of Islamabad’s busy road junctions.
The project is also expected to work alongside planned improvements to the Islamabad Expressway, potentially providing additional benefits for commuters travelling between the capital and Rawalpindi.
More Steps Planned to Address Islamabad Expressway Congestion
During his visit, Naqvi also said that steps were being taken to address traffic congestion on the Islamabad Expressway.
The expressway is an important route for commuters travelling between Islamabad and Rawalpindi, and traffic pressure on the road can create delays, particularly during busy hours.
The government is focusing on infrastructure development and traffic management measures to improve road connectivity and facilitate smoother movement across the twin cities.
The Kashmir Chowk Underpass is one component of these broader efforts. Its completion is expected to improve movement around the junction, while additional measures will be needed to address congestion on other major roads.
The effectiveness of the project will ultimately depend on how traffic is managed after construction, including the use of slip roads, road connections and surrounding junctions.
When Will the Kashmir Chowk Underpass Open?
According to the briefing given to the interior minister, the project is expected to be completed within the scheduled 30-day period.
With 78% of construction reportedly finished in the first 20 days, the remaining work mainly involves completing road surfaces, horticulture, lighting and associated finishing activities.
However, the completion target should not be confused with a confirmed public opening date. Authorities will need to complete construction and any necessary inspections before the underpass can be fully opened to traffic.
The government is aiming to deliver the project on schedule while improving connectivity between Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
Once operational, the underpass is expected to provide commuters travelling towards Murree and Muzaffarabad with a smoother route and help reduce traffic pressure around Kashmir Chowk.
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