PM Lays Foundation Stone of Underpass Linking Murree Road with Srinagar Highway

PM Lays Foundation Stone of Underpass Linking Murree Road with Srinagar Highway

Islamabad – April 18, 2025:

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif laid the foundation stone of a landmark underpass project today, which is set to connect Murree Road with Srinagar Highway, aiming to revolutionize the flow of traffic in the federal capital and its adjoining areas.

The ceremony took place near the Peshawar Morr interchange where the new underpass will originate, passing beneath the busy intersections of Faizabad and Zero Point. The project, overseen by the Capital Development Authority (CDA), is part of a broader strategy to modernize Islamabad’s traffic infrastructure and reduce congestion along major city routes.

A Strategic Move for Urban Connectivity

While addressing the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the importance of seamless transportation for economic growth, convenience, and environmental sustainability. “Islamabad is growing fast. We must ensure that its infrastructure grows even faster,” the Prime Minister said. “This underpass will not only ease traffic congestion but also enhance road safety and reduce fuel consumption.”

The Prime Minister said the project would greatly benefit commuters who travel daily between Rawalpindi and Islamabad, particularly those using Murree Road — one of the most heavily trafficked arteries in the twin cities.

Project Details and Timeline

According to CDA officials, the underpass is designed to streamline traffic from Murree Road directly to Srinagar Highway without requiring diversions through central Islamabad. The 2.5-kilometer-long underpass will feature dual carriageways, modern lighting systems, and advanced drainage infrastructure to handle heavy rainfall.

Estimated to cost approximately Rs. 8 billion, the project will be completed in 18 months. CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa briefed the media, saying, “Our priority is to ensure timely delivery with international quality standards. Environmental impact assessments and stakeholder consultations have already been completed.”

A Step Toward Eco-Friendly Urban Planning

Urban development experts hailed the underpass initiative as a step forward in sustainable city planning. Traffic congestion in Islamabad has led to increased air pollution and longer commuting hours. By easing the traffic burden on main roads, the new underpass is expected to reduce carbon emissions and promote fuel efficiency.

The Prime Minister also instructed the CDA to prioritize pedestrian safety and to incorporate green zones and service roads in the design. “Infrastructure must be inclusive. We must build not just for vehicles, but also for people,” he said.

Political and Public Reactions

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by several federal ministers, local representatives, and members of the business community. Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal called the project “a gift to the people of the twin cities,” while expressing hope for its completion ahead of schedule.

Public response to the announcement has been largely positive, especially from daily commuters and public transport operators. “If this really helps avoid Faizabad and Zero Point traffic, it will save us hours every week,” said Farhan Ahmed, a van driver who travels from Rawalpindi to Islamabad daily.

Future Development Plans

In addition to the underpass, the CDA and federal government are also exploring options to improve the public transportation system, including new metro bus routes and intelligent traffic management systems. The PM reiterated his government's commitment to building modern infrastructure and positioning Islamabad as a model city in South Asia.

The underpass between Murree Road and Srinagar Highway marks the beginning of a new phase of urban modernization in the capital. With construction set to begin within weeks, residents of Islamabad and Rawalpindi may soon experience a significant improvement in travel times and road safety.