RAWALPINDI: The Rawalpindi administration has introduced strict New Rules for road cutting and excavation work.
Commissioner Rawalpindi Division Salman Ghani ordered departments to obtain a prior No Objection Certificate (NOC). The requirement applies to road cutting linked to development and utility projects.
The Commissioner took notice of repeated road excavation across the city. He said unnecessary road cutting creates problems for residents and commuters.
Such work can also cause traffic congestion and inconvenience for the public. It can further result in the unnecessary use of government resources.
Under the New Rules, departments and utility providers must coordinate before starting excavation work. They must also share information about underground service lines.
Details of planned future projects must also be exchanged between relevant departments. This coordination aims to prevent repeated road cutting at the same locations.
The Commissioner directed authorities to treat road cutting as a last option. Departments must consider alternative construction methods wherever possible.
Modern techniques such as thrust boring and ducting should be used to protect road surfaces. These methods can reduce damage caused by traditional excavation.
Roads Must Be Restored Within 15 Days
Road cutting will only be permitted when excavation cannot be avoided. In such cases, the concerned department must restore the road.
The restoration must bring the road back to its original standard. The work must be completed within 15 days of the excavation.
Authorities must also finalize backfilling and reconstruction timelines before work starts. This will help ensure roads are not left damaged for extended periods.
The Commissioner also issued directions concerning newly constructed roads. Newly built or recently rehabilitated roads should not be cut for service lines.
Departments must consider utility requirements during the planning stage of major projects. This will help reduce the need for excavation after road construction.
Pending Applications to Be Cleared
The administration has also directed officials to address pending road-cutting applications. Applications from utility providers must be processed within three days.
The decision is aimed at improving coordination between departments and service providers. It also seeks to reduce unnecessary damage to public infrastructure.
The New Rules are expected to bring greater control over road excavation activities in Rawalpindi. Departments will need to plan utility work before requesting road-cutting permission.
The administration has emphasized better planning and the use of modern construction methods. The measures are intended to protect roads while ensuring essential utility work continues.
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The new instructions cover road cutting for the installation, repair and relocation of utility lines. Relevant departments and service providers will have to follow the approval and restoration requirements.
