New Underpass Proposed at Station Mor, Rawalpindi
The Punjab government is considering the construction of a new underpass at Station Mor on The Mall in Rawalpindi, aiming to enhance traffic flow near the Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology (AFIC) and Military Hospital. This development is part of broader efforts to extend the signal-free corridor along Peshawar Road and The Mall, addressing one of the busiest intersections in the city.
Details of the Station Mor Underpass Plan
Station Mor is a crucial traffic point that connects major routes including The Mall, Peshawar Road, AFIC, and the Military Hospital. Currently, traffic congestion in this area hinders smooth transit between Ammar Chowk and Motorway Chowk. The underpass proposal, recommended by NESPAK, is designed to maintain continuous movement along this corridor.
The project is presently in the planning stage, with the Project Concept-I (PC-I) report being finalized and expected to be submitted to the Punjab government by late October for approval. If authorized, construction could commence by the end of December, following the completion of the Race Course and Charing Cross underpasses, which are already 60% complete with an expected finish by November.
Context Within Rawalpindi’s Traffic Improvements
This new underpass forms a vital part of Rawalpindi’s traffic management strategy, which focuses on reducing roadside signals and easing bottlenecks along key urban arteries. Previous phases of the project excluded Station Mor due to traffic detours implemented during the GPO underpass construction, which complicated simultaneous closures.
Meanwhile, significant progress has been made on the Race Course and Charing Cross underpasses, which aim to segregate northbound and southbound traffic respectively. These projects include comprehensive infrastructure work such as utility relocation, drainage upgrades, and structural piling, essential to supporting increased traffic capacity.
Significance for Rawalpindi and Pakistan
The addition of the Station Mor underpass will further promote the development of signal-free corridors, which are critical in reducing travel time and improving road safety not only for motorists in Rawalpindi but also for commuters who depend on this route daily. As urban populations rise, efficient traffic management becomes increasingly urgent to sustain economic activities and improve quality of life.
A spokesperson from the district administration remarked, “The proposed underpass at Station Mor will significantly contribute to the signal-free vision for this corridor, ensuring smoother transit and reduced congestion for residents and visitors alike.”
For Pakistan, infrastructure improvements like these are essential investments that underpin urban development and mobility, facilitating better connectivity and supporting the national agenda to modernize transport networks.