RAWALPINDI: The Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) Rawalpindi has started a major beautification project on Murree Road, focusing on the improvement of metro pillars from Faizabad to Saddar. The project is expected to cost Rs160 million and is likely to be completed by the end of next month.
Speaking to a private newspaper, PHA Director General Ahmed Hassan Ranjha said that there are 226 metro pillars along the elevated route from Saddar to Faizabad. So far, work on 22 pillars has been completed. The section from Faizabad to Chandni Chowk will be finished by the end of June.
He said the pillars are being renovated using Karachi sand, which will help keep their new look for more than ten years. Additionally, warm lights will be installed to give a pleasant view at night.
Mr Ranjha added that many pillars had been in poor condition for years and were covered with advertisements. “We’ve removed all such eyesores to ensure a clean and welcoming view for people entering Rawalpindi via Murree Road,” he said.
He further shared that green belts along the road are also being improved, and the entrance from Islamabad into Rawalpindi will be decorated as part of the beautification plan. PHA has planned several new projects for the next financial year to make the city greener and more attractive.
— ALSO READ —
Punjab launches second phase of Clinic-on-Wheels project
These include the full renovation of Murree Road, beautifying metro pillars citywide, and displaying Quranic verses. A special monument featuring Durood Sharif will also be constructed on Rawal Road.
In addition, 75,000 saplings will be planted along Rawalpindi Ring Road to promote greenery. Mr Ranjha said that over 1,000 kanals have been allocated for the expansion of the Gorakhpur Nursery, where thousands of new saplings will be planted.
In Murree, PHA will also launch new projects to improve recreational facilities for tourists. Mr Ranjha said that across Rawalpindi, various initiatives will focus on beautification, recreation, and greenery—aligning with the Punjab government’s vision.
“We are working hard to make Rawalpindi beautiful, green, and enjoyable for families,” he added.
RMC Finalises Rs470m Beautification Plan for Raja Bazaar
Similarly, the Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation (RMC) has completed planning for the beautification of Raja Bazaar from Fawara Chowk to Hamilton Road (also known as Dingi Khoi), with a total cost of Rs470 million. The proposal will be submitted to the Divisional Development Working Party (DDWP) on Monday for final approval.
According to RMC Chief Municipal Officer Imran Ali, Rs250 million will be spent to shift utility services like electricity, gas, telephone, water, and sewerage lines. The remaining Rs220 million will go towards beautification works.
— ALSO READ —
Punjab introduces special green number plates for electric vehicles
He said Islamabad Electric Supply Company (Iesco) initially demanded Rs200 million for underground cabling of the one-kilometre road. However, after negotiations, the cost was reduced to Rs180 million. SNGPL and PTCL will each receive Rs30 million, and WASA will be given Rs5 million for shifting services.
Beautification work will include the replacement of streetlights, installation of benches, construction of separate public washrooms for men and women, restoration of old buildings, plantation of trees, and updated signboards.
The project’s PC-I will be presented on Monday at the Commissioner’s Office. The Divisional Commissioner, who also serves as RMC Administrator, is expected to approve the project, as the Punjab government has already greenlighted the work.
Earlier this year, Raja Bazaar was declared a vehicle-free zone from Fawara Chowk to Hamilton Road. At the time, RMC had promised that beautification would begin before Eidul Fitr. However, the project was delayed due to issues with Iesco over underground cabling costs.
Now, with reduced costs and a complete plan, RMC officials are hopeful the project will begin soon, transforming Raja Bazaar into a clean and family-friendly area.
