The Punjab government has set August 14 as the latest date to inaugurate the long-awaited Ring Road project in Rawalpindi. This is the sixth completion target announced since construction resumed. However, the planned opening now faces uncertainty due to a new dispute over a no objection certificate (NOC) for a service area along the route.
The Ring Road project has experienced several delays over the past few years. During the tenure of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, work on the project was suspended after changes to its design and route became controversial. The issue led to the removal of several senior officials and delayed construction.
Since work restarted, the Punjab government has repeatedly revised the project timeline. Earlier completion targets included December 30, 2025, March 30, May 30, June 15, and June 22. None of these deadlines were met, making the August 14 target the latest attempt to complete the project.
Officials said the main carriageway from Banth Interchange to the motorway link has already been completed. This section is now ready for use. However, work is still underway on eight toll plazas and 16 toll booths. These remaining tasks must be completed before the project can become fully operational.
A fresh legal issue has now added to the uncertainty surrounding the Ring Road inauguration. The dispute involves an NOC issued for a service area covering 102 kanal and 14 marla of land on both sides of the road.
The matter is currently before the Lahore High Court. A division bench has suspended an earlier decision that had validated the NOC. The court has scheduled the next hearing for July 16. The outcome of the case could affect the project’s planned inauguration.
The controversy has also resulted in major administrative changes in Rawalpindi. Several senior officials have been transferred following the dispute. These include the Rawalpindi commissioner, deputy commissioner, and other government officers.
The Punjab government has appointed new officials to oversee the situation. Commissioner Salman Ghani, Deputy Commissioner Nadeem Nasir, and Abad Department Director General Rao Atif Raza have taken charge of their respective positions.
Despite the latest setback, authorities continue to work on the remaining construction and administrative matters. The government hopes to complete all pending work and resolve the legal issue before the planned August 14 inauguration.
In other news read more about Rawalpindi Ring Road Near Completion, Opening Expected in July
The Ring Road project is considered an important infrastructure development for Rawalpindi. It is expected to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and provide a faster travel route once it becomes fully operational.
