Rawalpindi has postponed nine major development schemes due to a shortage of funds, affecting several planned infrastructure improvements across the city.
The delayed Road Projects include rehabilitation, widening, carpeting, and construction-related work on important routes. Officials have moved these schemes to the red zone until December 31, 2027.
The affected projects have also been removed from the Annual Development Programme. Authorities said the delay may increase the original costs when these schemes are restarted in the future.
One of the major projects affected is the upgrade of Rawal Road. The project covers a two-kilometre section from Ali Nawaz Intersection to Murree Road. It was planned as an alternative route to reduce pressure on Murree Road.
The estimated cost of the Rawal Road improvement project was Rs241 million. Officials had expected the upgraded route to provide better travel options for residents and commuters.
Other postponed Road Projects include the rehabilitation of Khayaban-i-Sir Syed Road. The 1.6-kilometre project was estimated to cost around Rs213 million.
The 1.5-kilometre Bokra Road development scheme has also been delayed. Its estimated cost was Rs226 million. Another affected project is the 1.74-kilometre Fifth Road improvement plan, valued at Rs138 million.
The Chandni Chowk to Commercial Market Road project is also among the delayed schemes. The 0.8-kilometre project had an estimated cost of Rs115 million.
The Railway Workshop Road project, covering a 1.2-kilometre area, has also been placed on hold. The estimated cost of this scheme was Rs247 million.
In addition, road links between China Market and Gordon College Road, along with Satellite Town 4-B Road improvements, have been delayed because of limited development funds.
Officials stated that the projects will remain deferred until financial resources become available. The costs of these schemes may be reviewed once development work resumes.
The funding shortage has also affected other development plans in Rawalpindi. Several healthcare projects, including hospital improvements and expansion plans, have also been shifted to the red zone.
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The delay in these Road Projects is expected to continue until budget availability improves. Authorities will reassess the development plans after funds are allocated for these schemes.
