The Rawalpindi administration has commenced land acquisition for the Thalian Interchange, part of a larger road project.
The divisional administration in Rawalpindi has initiated the process of acquiring land for the Thalian Interchange, a key feature of the Rawalpindi Ring Road project, which is estimated to cost Rs5 billion. Construction is scheduled to commence next week.
In a revision of the project design, an additional 358 kanals of land will be acquired, supplementing the original allocation of 557 kanals for the interchange. To expedite the land acquisition, Section 14 has been invoked, allowing for quicker resolution of the process.
A meeting chaired by Divisional Commissioner Aamer Khattak addressed various issues concerning residential and other structures located in the area designated for the project. The administration aims to resolve these issues swiftly to avoid any delays in the construction schedule.
The Thalian Interchange is anticipated to facilitate over 18,000 vehicles daily, connecting the Ring Road with the motorway and improving traffic flow in the region. The overall Rawalpindi Ring Road project, now projected at Rs47 billion, will stretch 38.3 kilometers and feature five interchanges, designed for a six-lane, controlled-access corridor with speeds up to 120 km/h.
Preparatory works are underway by the Frontier Works Organisation, including the completion of approximately 28 kilometers of asphalt surfacing. Construction of other interchanges, overpasses, and installation of street lighting and barriers is also in progress. Additionally, a toll collection system similar to that of the Lahore Ring Road is being considered, with a proposed charge of Rs80 per vehicle, pending approval from the Punjab government.
