The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) has unveiled an ambitious Rs9 billion development plan to revamp Murree Road — one of the busiest and most important corridors connecting Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
The project includes the addition of new service lanes, full road rehabilitation, and upgrades designed to ease traffic congestion for thousands of daily commuters.
Key Highlights of the Murree Road Overhaul
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Total cost: Rs 9 billion
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New service lanes planned from Liaquat Bagh to Chandni Chowk
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Murree Road to become signal-free from Marrir Chowk to Faizabad
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Road rehabilitation from Saddar Flashman’s to Faizabad
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Last major repair was completed in 2014
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Land acquisition surveys already underway
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Development part of a mega uplift package for Rawalpindi
Why Murree Road Needs an Upgrade
Murree Road is one of the twin cities’ key arteries, connecting Rawalpindi’s densely populated neighborhoods to Islamabad.
However, years of overuse, heavy traffic flow, and inadequate expansion have left the road deteriorated, causing:
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Frequent traffic jams
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Slow intercity travel
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Increased wear on vehicles
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Safety concerns for motorists
RDA officials stated that improvements are essential to ensure smooth mobility between the two cities.
Project 1: New Service Lanes From Liaquat Bagh to Chandni Chowk
RDA Director General Kinza Murtaza confirmed that the first major project — worth Rs8.1 billion — focuses on constructing service lanes on both sides of Murree Road.
What this upgrade includes:
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New service roads from Liaquat Bagh → Chandni Chowk
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Additional capacity for merging traffic
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Reduced pressure on the main carriageway
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Plans to make the stretch signal-free up to Faizabad
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Improved access for businesses, buses, and local vehicles
A significant portion of the cost will go toward land acquisition, with surveys already in progress. Construction will begin once the Punjab government releases funds.
Existing service lanes from Chandni Chowk to Faizabad will remain, creating a continuous service route along the corridor.
Project 2: Rehabilitation of Murree Road From Saddar to Faizabad
The second project — costing Rs953 million — aims to restore the worn-out portions of Murree Road from Saddar Flashman’s to Faizabad.
Upgrades include:
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Re-carpeting of damaged sections
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Road surface improvement
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Better drainage and infrastructure adjustments
This will be the first major repair since 2014, when the Metro Bus elevated track was constructed.
Part of Rawalpindi’s Mega Development Vision
According to senior district officials, the Punjab government is preparing a comprehensive development package for Rawalpindi, modeled after successful urban uplift initiatives in Lahore.
The upcoming city-wide plan aims to deliver:
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Improved water supply
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Better sewerage systems
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Cleaner, greener public spaces
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Pollution control
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Modern civic amenities
Officials expect significant transformation beginning from 2026, with Murree Road’s expansion serving as one of the cornerstone projects.
Final Outlook
The Rs9 billion Murree Road upgrade is expected to:
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Reduce congestion along one of the busiest routes
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Improve connectivity between Rawalpindi and Islamabad
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Enhance commuter safety
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Support local commerce and transportation
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Contribute to long-term urban development in the garrison city
Once completed, Murree Road will offer a smoother, faster, and more sustainable travel experience for millions of residents and visitors.
