ISLAMABAD – Residents of Islamabad can now use newly completed Kashmir Chowk underpass as the capital administration has opened the Rs1.4 billion infrastructure project to traffic following its completion in just 27 days.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated the underpass on Thursday, praising Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi for delivering the major road infrastructure project in an unusually short period.
اسلام آباد میں کشمیر چوک انڈرپاس کی افتتاحی تقریب میں وزیراعظم محمد شہباز شریف کی شرکت و خطاب https://t.co/YV9cwaBNna
— Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (@MoIB_Official) November 5, 2026
The development is expected to improve traffic movement around Kashmir Chowk, with the project covering not only the underpass but also its connecting roads and surrounding beautification work. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Sharif said the speed of construction was unprecedented in his political experience, adding that completing such a large-scale project within 27 days was an exceptional achievement.
He pointed out that the construction work included the development of connecting roads, plantation of trees, installation of greenery and landscaping, all completed alongside the main underpass.
PM highlighted the financial and procurement aspects of the project, saying the construction contract was awarded through the electronic Public Procurement and Disposal System (e-PADS), ensuring transparency in the bidding process. He said the project was delivered at a cost below its initial estimated budget, despite the accelerated construction timeline.
The prime minister said the government was preparing further development initiatives to improve Islamabad’s infrastructure and appearance ahead of next year’s Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. He specifically directed Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to expand the capital’s landscaping and beautification efforts, with greater emphasis on flowers, trees and green spaces.
Sharif said greener and more attractive capital would create a welcoming environment for Islamabad’s residents and international delegates expected to visit Pakistan for the SCO summit.
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