Jinnah Square Murree Road Underpass: Islamabad’s Traffic Game-Changer

In a landmark push for rapid infrastructure development, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi personally inspected the Jinnah Square Murree Road Underpass in Islamabad, setting an unprecedented 35‑day completion deadline while ensuring stringent quality standards . Spanning 479 meters with three traffic lanes, the underpass is complemented by a widened bridge adding two lanes per side and expanded slip roads to streamline traffic flow.

Part of the larger signal‑free corridor from Islamabad Airport to Murree, this project promises to alleviate congestion at choke points like Kashmir Chowk, reduce fuel consumption, and enhance connectivity for both residents and tourists .

CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa confirmed the rapid progress on structure and road networks, underscoring confidence in meeting the ambitious timeline

Jinnah Square Project Snapshot: What’s Being Built?

1. The Underpass: By the Numbers

Length: 479 meters (longer than 4 football fields!).
Lanes: 3 dedicated lanes in each direction.
Bridge Expansion: Existing bridge widened by 2 lanes on both sides.
Slip Roads: 4 connecting roads expanded for seamless merges.

2. Speed Meets Quality: Naqvi’s Directives

During his inspection, Mohsin Naqvi emphasized:

Deadline Focus: “35 days—no excuses.”
Quality Assurance: “Speed cannot compromise durability.”

Traffic Management During Construction

To minimize commuter inconvenience, Minister Naqvi directed the establishment of smooth, clearly marked alternate routes during construction phases, ensuring uninterrupted traffic flow on Murree Road . According to Radio Pakistan, the underpass will be opened for traffic within 35 days, demonstrating a synchronized commitment across federal authorities to tackle Islamabad’s congestion . He highlighted the need for coordinated traffic control measures around Kashmir Chowk to prevent bottlenecks

This hands-on approach mirrors his success with Lahore’s Gulberg Flyover, completed 45 days ahead of schedule in 2023.

Historical Context

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif performed the groundbreaking ceremony of the Jinnah Square Murree Road Underpass on April 17, 2025, emphasizing its role in enhancing Islamabad’s connectivity and supporting regional tourism Conceived to eliminate traffic chokepoints on the Murree Road corridor, the underpass has since become a symbol of fast‑track urban development in Pakistan

Technical Specifications
Underpass Dimensions and Lanes

The underpass will extend 479 meters beneath Murree Road, featuring three lanes dedicated to through‑traffic, enabling a significant boost in vehicle capacity and travel speed.

Bridge Widening and Slip Roads

Adjacent to the underpass, an existing bridge is being widened with two additional lanes on either side, while four nearby slip roads are expanded to facilitate seamless ingress and egress, further dispersing traffic loads .

Expected Impact on Traffic

Signal-Free Corridor

Once operational, the underpass will integrate into a signal‑free route between Islamabad Airport and Murree, drastically cutting travel times and eliminating wait periods at intersections

Benefits for Commuters and Tourists

Local commuters will experience reduced congestion near key nodes like Kashmir Chowk, saving both time and fuel, while tourists traveling to Murree will enjoy smoother transit and improved safety.

Project Stakeholders and Timeline

CDA Leadership and Collaboration

Chairman of the Capital Development Authority, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, briefed Minister Naqvi on daily progress metrics, assuring that the structure and road networks were on track for timely completion

Record-Setting Completion Target

By mandating a 35‑day completion window—a record in Pakistani urban infrastructure—the government aims to showcase efficient project management and fast‑moving public works

Conclusion and Future Outlook

With preliminary structure and excavation works advancing swiftly, the Jinnah Square Murree Road Underpass is poised to become a milestone in Islamabad’s transport network. Stakeholders are optimistic that the project will set new benchmarks for quality and speed, while easing long‑standing traffic woes and bolstering the city’s appeal as a gateway to Murree’s scenic heights.