Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has inaugurated the construction of a new underpass project in Islamabad aimed at directly connecting Murree Road with the Srinagar Highway. This strategic move is designed to ease traffic congestion and provide a smoother route for commuters traveling between the federal capital and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK).
The project, which kicked off on April 17, is expected to streamline movement for travelers heading from Islamabad International Airport towards Muzaffarabad, minimizing delays caused by busy intersections. Residents of Bhara Kahu, Murree, and nearby areas will especially benefit from this direct link.
Previously, traffic flowing from Murree to Srinagar Highway had to pass through Kashmir Chowk — a major bottleneck. This underpass will eliminate the need for that detour, significantly cutting travel time.
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is overseeing the initiative as an extension of the recently completed Serena Interchange. To fast-track the project, the CDA utilized a clause allowing up to 15% variation in the original contract, removing the need for a new bidding process. The anticipated cost of this project is Rs900 million, and it is expected to be finished in 60 days.
The prime minister praised Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, CDA Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa, and other officials involved in the project for pushing forward development efforts in the capital.
