CM Maryam Nawaz inaugurates Marka-e-Haq signal-free corridor project in Rawalpindi

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Saturday inaugurated Marka-e-Haq Square at Kachehri Chowk in Rawalpindi and reviewed progress on the city’s major signal-free corridor projects aimed at improving traffic flow and urban infrastructure.

The inauguration ceremony marked the completion of what officials described as Pakistan’s first unique large-scale urban traffic project completed in a record 179 days, ahead of the estimated 190-day timeline.

Following the unveiling of the Marka-e-Haq Square milestone, prayers were offered to commemorate the occasion. The chief minister later visited various sections of the signal-free corridor and inspected newly constructed underpasses, overhead bridges, and other road infrastructure projects.

During the visit, Maryam Nawaz reviewed ongoing work at key locations including Annexe Chowk and Taji PO Chowk, where signal-free traffic systems are being developed to ease congestion in the city.

Provincial Minister Malik Sohaib Ahmed Bharath briefed the chief minister on the progress of the project, stating that more than 200,000 vehicles are expected to use the signal-free corridor daily once completed.

Officials said the corridor project currently includes five underpasses, two overhead bridges, and pedestrian bridges already completed, while additional underpasses are planned at Race Course, Charing Cross, and AFIC Chowk.

The broader Rawalpindi signal-free corridor project aims to develop a 25-kilometer uninterrupted traffic route stretching from Rawat to the motorway. Authorities said the full project will eventually include nine underpasses and three flyovers to improve traffic movement across the city.

Officials also highlighted the construction of what they described as the city’s first state-of-the-art pedestrian bridge at Muarka-e-Haq Square.

Speaking during the visit, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said the signal-free corridor project would significantly transform Rawalpindi’s urban culture and modernize the city’s transportation infrastructure.

Authorities confirmed that two phases of the Rawat-to-motorway signal-free corridor have already been completed, while work on the third phase is expected to finish soon.