Rawalpindi: The Rawalpindi Division is set to receive significant infrastructure upgrades, including the widening of the Rawalpindi-Murree-Kashmir Highway, as part of the Annual Development Programme (ADP) for the fiscal year 2024-25. The decision, which involves an allocation of PKR 229.833 billion for 395 development schemes, aims to enhance traffic capacity and reduce congestion, particularly from tourism and commercial activities.

According to Zameen.Com, Commissioner Aamir Khattak detailed the plans during a Divisional Development Working Party review meeting. The highlight of the session was the approval of the widening project for the 66km stretch of road at Lower Topa. The project is budgeted at PKR 133 million and is expected to be completed within six months by the Punjab Highway Department.

Commissioner Khattak underscored the urgency of the road expansion, noting the current infrastructure’s inability to handle the heavy traffic load. He emphasized the importance of using high-quality materials, adhering to policy guidelines, and expediting the completion to minimize public inconvenience. The meeting also addressed the division’s broader development strategy, which includes 274 ongoing schemes and 121 new projects, all designed to improve the quality of life for the area’s residents.

The meeting drew various key officials, including the Additional Commissioner Coordination Syed Nazarat Ali, Assistant Director Development, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Finance and Planning), SE Highways, Xen Building, among others, highlighting a collective effort to bolster public convenience through infrastructure development.