Peshawar’s Northern Bypass Project Faces Further Delays
The long-delayed Northern Bypass project in Peshawar, which is meant to complete the city’s Ring Road, is once again facing serious setbacks. Despite being one of the most important infrastructure projects for the provincial capital, the scheme has received only Rs. 500 million in the current fiscal year, far below the amount required for timely completion. Officials have warned that the funding shortfall could push the project into further delays, adding to already rising costs and prolonging traffic problems for residents.
Launched over a decade ago, the Northern Bypass was designed to divert heavy traffic away from the city and improve overall road connectivity. However, repeated delays, cost escalations, and administrative hurdles have turned it into a long-running project with no clear end in sight.
Background of the Northern Bypass Project
The Northern Bypass project was launched in 2010 with the objective of completing Peshawar’s Ring Road and easing congestion on inner-city routes. The project stretches over 30 kilometres and was expected to significantly improve traffic flow by providing an alternative route for commercial and heavy vehicles.
At the time of approval, the project’s estimated cost was Rs. 3.07 billion. It was considered a relatively straightforward road development scheme that would be completed within a few years. However, due to multiple factors including delays in execution, changes in project scope, inflation, and weak financial planning, the project has remained incomplete even after 17 years.
Massive Increase in Project Cost
One of the most concerning aspects of the Northern Bypass project is the sharp rise in its overall cost. After several PC-I revisions, the total estimated cost has increased to Rs. 27.05 billion, a nearly ninefold increase from the original figure.
Officials attribute the cost escalation to prolonged delays, rising construction material prices, and additional infrastructure requirements introduced over time. Each delay has further increased financial pressure, making the project more expensive with every passing year.
Experts believe that had the project been completed on schedule, the government could have saved billions of rupees in public funds.
Severe Funding Shortfall in Current Fiscal Year
According to official documents, the Northern Bypass project requires around Rs. 5.3 billion during the current fiscal year to stay on track. This includes:
- Rs. 4.27 billion for actual construction work
- Rs. 1.1 billion to cover cost escalation during the year
However, under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP), the project has been allocated only Rs. 500 million, which is a fraction of the required amount.
Project officials have expressed concern that this limited allocation is insufficient even to maintain the current pace of work. They fear that contractors may slow down construction due to delayed payments, further affecting timelines.
Uneven Progress Across Project Sections
The Northern Bypass project has been divided into multiple construction packages, and progress varies significantly across different sections.
- Some packages are close to completion
- Others remain far behind schedule, with revised deadlines extending into 2026
Officials say that while certain stretches of the road are almost ready for use, others are stuck due to financial constraints and unresolved technical issues. This uneven progress has prevented authorities from opening completed sections fully, reducing the immediate benefits of the work done so far.
Key Issues Causing Delays
Land Acquisition Problems
One of the major reasons for delays has been pending land acquisition in several areas. Disputes over compensation and ownership have slowed down construction and forced contractors to halt work at certain locations.
Relocation of Electricity Infrastructure
The relocation of electricity pylons and utility lines has also emerged as a significant challenge. Coordination between different departments has taken longer than expected, causing further delays and increasing costs.
Underpass and Structural Work Delays
Several underpasses included in the project design are still incomplete. Officials cite technical difficulties, design revisions, and lack of funds as the main reasons behind slow progress on these structures.
Impact on Traffic and Public Convenience
The prolonged delay in completing the Northern Bypass has had a direct impact on traffic congestion in Peshawar. Heavy vehicles continue to pass through city roads, worsening traffic flow and increasing travel time for commuters.
Residents have repeatedly complained about:
- Daily traffic jams
- Increased fuel consumption
- Road safety concerns
- Environmental pollution
Urban planners believe that the completion of the Northern Bypass would significantly reduce pressure on inner-city roads and improve the overall transport system.
Economic and Strategic Importance of the Project
The Northern Bypass is not just a road project; it holds economic and strategic importance for Peshawar and surrounding areas. Once completed, it is expected to:
- Improve connectivity for trade and logistics
- Support local businesses and industrial zones
- Reduce wear and tear on city roads
- Enhance emergency response times
Delays in such a key infrastructure project also affect investor confidence and raise questions about development planning in the province.
Call for Federal Government Support
Given the financial shortfall, project officials have urged the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provincial government to approach the federal government for additional funding.
They have warned that without timely financial support:
- Project costs will continue to rise
- Completion deadlines will be pushed further
- Public frustration will grow
Officials believe that federal assistance could help speed up construction and prevent further cost escalation.
Public Reaction and Growing Frustration
The repeated delays have caused frustration among residents, who have seen the project remain unfinished for nearly two decades. Many believe that poor planning and lack of accountability are the main reasons behind the slow progress.
Social media users and civil society groups have also questioned why such an important project has failed to meet its deadlines despite multiple revisions and increased funding over the years.
Conclusion -Peshawar’s Northern Bypass Project Faces Further Delays
The Northern Bypass project was envisioned as a long-term solution to Peshawar’s traffic and connectivity problems. However, after 17 years, it remains incomplete, with fresh delays expected due to insufficient funding.
With only Rs. 500 million allocated against a requirement of Rs. 5.3 billion, the project faces an uncertain future unless urgent steps are taken. Experts and officials agree that timely funding, better coordination, and strict monitoring are essential to finally complete this critical road project.
If immediate action is not taken, the Northern Bypass risks becoming a permanent example of delayed development, costing both time and public money while continuing to inconvenience the people of Peshawar.
