PM Inaugurates Kashmir Chowk Underpass in Islamabad
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated the Kashmir Chowk Underpass in Islamabad on Thursday, completing a Rs1.45 billion project in 27 days.
The 500-metre underpass was built through round-the-clock construction work, according to the prime minister. It is meant to reduce traffic congestion in the capital, particularly around Kashmir Chowk.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Shehbaz congratulated Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, the Capital Development Authority (CDA), project officials and contractors on finishing the work.
He said the development also includes a four-kilometre road network, two monuments and thousands of newly planted trees. The underpass will improve traffic flow in the area, particularly as Islamabad prepares to host the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) conference next year.
The prime minister said the project was completed transparently and in line with government procurement rules, at a cost 2.5 per cent below the estimated amount.
The Kashmir Chowk Underpass: from foundation stone to opening in a month
The prime minister laid the foundation stone of the project on October 6. Feature Pakistan reported on November 4 that the underpass was almost complete after 28 days of work, with the CDA expecting an inauguration on Thursday or Friday.
That timetable has now been met, with the opening taking place on Thursday. The project was launched at an estimated cost of Rs1.4 billion, and the final figure announced at the inauguration was Rs1.45 billion.
CDA engineers had said final asphalt work, lane marking and horticulture were receiving finishing touches before the opening. The authority said the project would set a new record for completion time once it opened to traffic.
What it means for Islamabad traffic
The underpass sits on a busy route through the capital, and the CDA says it will ease movement for traffic heading through Kashmir Chowk. The opening follows a series of traffic changes in the area, including the closure of the road between Rawal Dam Chowk and Kashmir Chowk until further notice and the closure of the Rawal Dam Chowk to Serena road.
Other cities are also expanding underpasses. Peshawar is set to get three new underpasses under a traffic master plan.
The prime minister said the project showed that public works could be finished quickly when departments worked together. The CDA will now focus on the remaining road and horticulture work around the site.
Frequently asked questions
When was the Kashmir Chowk Underpass inaugurated?
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated the underpass on Thursday, November 5, 2026.
How much did the underpass cost?
The project cost Rs1.45 billion. The prime minister said it was completed at a cost 2.5 per cent below the estimated amount.
How long did it take to build?
The 500-metre underpass was completed in 27 days through round-the-clock construction work. The foundation stone was laid on October 6.
What else does the project include?
The development includes a four-kilometre road network, two monuments and thousands of newly planted trees.
Why does the underpass matter for the SCO conference?
The prime minister said the underpass would improve traffic flow in the area, particularly as Islamabad prepares to host the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation conference next year.
