PRIME Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s initiative to lay the foundation stones for the Jinnah Avenue-Ninth Avenue and Serena Chowk-Convention Centre intersections is a commendable step towards enhancing Islamabad’s infrastructure. These projects, aimed at alleviating the traffic congestion, promise to improve the flow of daily commuters.
The timely completion of these intersections is crucial not only for ease of movement but also for improving the overall aesthetic and functionality of Islamabad. Particularly, the Serena Chowk intersection holds immense significance, as it serves as one of the main entry points to the Red Zone, where key government buildings are located. For thousands of employees and daily commuters, the efficient management of traffic at Serena Chowk is essential to ease their daily journey. Hence, the project’s swift execution, expected in just 60 days, is commendable. Alongside these new ventures, it is important to maintain focus on the ongoing infrastructure projects that are equally vital. The expansion of the Islamabad Expressway, for instance, has been plagued by delays. While the majority of the work is now complete, the remaining must be finished as soon as possible. The longer these projects drag on, the higher the costs rise. It is essential that the relevant authorities make a concerted effort to accelerate the completion of these projects to avoid further delays and financial strain.
Beyond traffic-related improvements, Islamabad’s status as one of the most beautiful and serene capitals requires continuous attention to its environment and waste management systems. As the city grows, the challenge of waste management becomes more pronounced. Once celebrated for its clean streets and green spaces, parts of Islamabad are now facing the repercussions of increased urbanization and poor waste disposal practices. A glaring example of this is the littering along the green belt on Lehtrar Road. To combat this, the government should prioritize the installation of trash bins at all the important locations and implement a more efficient daily collection system. This small but important measure will help preserve Islamabad’s aesthetic charm and maintain its pristine environment which is a key part of the capital’s identity.
