Rs. 1.3 Billion Shaheen Chowk Underpass in Islamabad to Open for Traffic Soon
Islamabad is set to receive another major traffic relief project as the Shaheen Chowk Underpass, worth Rs. 1.3 billion, is expected to open for traffic in the coming days. After the recent inauguration of the T-Chowk Flyover, this underpass is being seen as another important step towards reducing traffic congestion in the federal capital.
The project is being developed by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) at one of Islamabad’s busiest intersections — the junction of 9th Avenue and Khyaban-i-Iqbal. Daily commuters, office workers, students, and commercial traffic have long faced severe delays at this point, making the underpass a highly anticipated development.
Where Is Shaheen Chowk Underpass Located in Islamabad?
The Shaheen Chowk Underpass is located at the intersection of:
- 9th Avenue
- Khyaban-i-Iqbal
This junction connects several major sectors of Islamabad and serves as a key route for:
- G-9, G-10, G-11 sectors
- Blue Area traffic
- Srinagar Highway commuters
- Public transport and private vehicles
Due to heavy traffic flow throughout the day, this intersection has remained one of the city’s most congested points.
Why Shaheen Chowk Was One of Islamabad’s Worst Traffic Bottlenecks
Before the underpass project, Shaheen Chowk was known for:
- Long traffic jams during office hours
- Delays for public transport users
- High fuel wastage due to idling vehicles
- Increased road rage and accidents
Thousands of vehicles pass through this junction daily, making traffic management extremely difficult without infrastructure upgrades.
Rs. 1.3 Billion Cost and Project Background
The Rs. 1.3 billion Shaheen Chowk Underpass was officially launched when Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif laid the foundation stone on October 24.
Key Project Facts
- Project Cost: Rs. 1.3 billion
- Executing Authority: Capital Development Authority (CDA)
- Original Deadline: April (as per PC-I)
- Current Status: Ahead of schedule
- Expected Opening: Very soon (final checks underway)
Officials have confirmed that construction progress is faster than planned, putting the project close to completion.
Major Design Changes Introduced by CDA
While construction was already in progress, the CDA approved major design improvements to enhance long-term traffic flow.
Why Design Changes Were Needed
- Growing traffic volume in Islamabad
- Future urban expansion
- Avoiding repeated infrastructure upgrades
Key Design Improvements
- Underpass length increased from 56 meters to 85 meters
- Additional lane added to the roundabout
- Two new U-turns introduced for better traffic access
- Improved vehicle merging and exit points
These changes aim to ensure smoother traffic movement and reduced congestion for years to come.
CDA Followed PPRA Rules for Cost Revision
A senior CDA official confirmed that the design revisions remained within the 15% cost-revision limit allowed under Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) rules.
This means:
- No violation of procurement laws
- No unnecessary budget escalation
- Transparency maintained in the project
How Shaheen Chowk Underpass Will Reduce Traffic Congestion
The underpass is expected to bring immediate relief by:
- Separating through-traffic from local traffic
- Reducing signal-based stoppages
- Allowing uninterrupted vehicle movement
- Minimizing traffic conflicts at intersections
Daily commuters will experience:
- Shorter travel times
- Lower fuel consumption
- Reduced vehicle wear and tear
Impact on Daily Commuters and Businesses
For Office Workers
- Faster access to workplaces
- Less stress during peak hours
For Students
- Safer and quicker travel to schools and universities
For Businesses
- Improved logistics and deliveries
- Increased commercial activity in surrounding sectors
Shaheen Chowk Underpass vs T-Chowk Flyover
Islamabad has recently seen rapid infrastructure upgrades. The T-Chowk Flyover was opened earlier, and now the Shaheen Chowk Underpass follows.
Key Difference
- T-Chowk Flyover: Elevated traffic solution
- Shaheen Chowk Underpass: Underground traffic flow
Both projects are part of CDA’s broader plan to modernize Islamabad’s road network.
Latest Construction Update and Social Media Buzz
Recent footage shared online shows rapid progress at the site. Videos posted by development trackers indicate:
- Finishing work underway
- Road surfacing nearing completion
- Final safety checks expected soon
The project has gained attention on social media under hashtags like:
- #ShaheenChowk
- #IslamabadTraffic
- #CDAProjects
- #DevelopingPakistan
When Will Shaheen Chowk Underpass Open for Traffic?
While no official inauguration date has been announced, officials indicate:
- Project is nearly complete
- Opening expected very soon
- Likely inauguration within days
Once opened, traffic diversions will be removed, and vehicles will be allowed to pass through the underpass.
Long-Term Benefits for Islamabad’s Road Network
The Shaheen Chowk Underpass is not just a short-term fix. Long-term benefits include:
- Improved urban mobility
- Reduced traffic pollution
- Better emergency vehicle movement
- Enhanced road safety
Such projects also support Islamabad’s vision of becoming a smart and well-planned capital city.
Public Reaction to the Underpass Project
Most citizens have welcomed the project, expressing hope that:
- Traffic congestion will finally ease
- Similar projects will be launched in other areas
- Islamabad’s infrastructure keeps pace with population growth
Future Road Projects Planned by CDA
CDA officials have hinted at:
- More underpasses and flyovers
- Signal-free corridors
- Smart traffic management systems
These projects aim to prepare Islamabad for future transportation demands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the cost of Shaheen Chowk Underpass?
The total cost of the project is Rs. 1.3 billion.
Where is Shaheen Chowk Underpass located?
It is located at the junction of 9th Avenue and Khyaban-i-Iqbal in Islamabad.
Who is constructing the underpass?
The project is being executed by the Capital Development Authority (CDA).
When will the underpass open for traffic?
Officials say it will open very soon, as construction is almost complete.
What changes were made to the original design?
The underpass length was increased, an extra lane was added, and two new U-turns were introduced.
