Major Traffic & Transport Reforms Planned for Rawalpindi–Islamabad

A comprehensive transport and traffic management plan is being implemented to ease congestion in Rawalpindi and Islamabad by shifting major public transport facilities to the Rawalpindi Ring Road. The initiative is being described as one of the most effective urban mobility strategies for the twin cities.

Key Highlights of the Plan

• Pirwadhai General Bus Stand along with all major public transport terminals will be relocated to the Ring Road.

• Islamabad’s central vegetable market will also be shifted to the Ring Road to reduce inner-city traffic pressure.

• Major bus stands at Faizabad Interchange, 26 Number Chungi, and other locations will be moved outside densely populated areas.

• Heavy transport vehicles will no longer be allowed to enter Rawalpindi city, significantly reducing congestion and road damage.

• Pirwadhai Bus Stand will come under the complete ownership of the Government of Punjab.

Affordable Local Transport for Citizens

• A local bus service will operate from Pirwadhai to different areas of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

• Bus fares will range between PKR 20 and PKR 50, making daily commuting affordable.

• Passengers will be able to travel to multiple city locations using a single integrated bus service, improving convenience and connectivity.

Intercity & Regional Traffic Management

• Transport arriving from Peshawar may be routed to a new terminal near Islamabad International Airport.

• All transport coming from Punjab, whether via Motorway (M-1/M-2) or GT Road, will be directed onto the Ring Road.

• The Ring Road will act as a connector between the Motorway and GT Road, streamlining long-distance travel.

• Traffic from Azad Kashmir via Murree will be stopped near Bharakahu.

• Vehicles from other Azad Kashmir districts will use the Rawat Ring Road route.

Ongoing & Future Development

• Construction of the Ring Road section from Rawat to the New Islamabad Airport is currently underway.

• Once the Ring Road is completed from the airport to Bharakahu, traffic from Bharakahu will also be redirected via Rawat.

• This phased development ensures smoother implementation without disrupting existing traffic flows.

A Step Toward Smarter Cities

Overall, this project is being hailed as excellent planning from a traffic management perspective. By relocating transport hubs, restricting heavy vehicles, and introducing affordable local bus services, the plan aims to reduce congestion, cut travel time, and improve the quality of urban life in Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

If implemented effectively, the Rawalpindi Ring Road will become a game-changer for regional mobility and a model for future urban transport planning in Pakistan.