CM Punjab inaugurates Bund Road Lahore Package-I corridor

WEB DESK: In a significant development, Package-I of the Controlled Access Corridor Project on Bund Road Lahore has been opened for light traffic following its inauguration by the caretaker Chief Minister (CM) of Punjab, Mohsin Naqvi.

The inauguration marks a major milestone in the ambitious project, with Package-2 expected to be completed within the next 15 days as construction efforts have intensified.

Addressing the ceremony, CM Naqvi acknowledged the substantial challenges in executing the project, initially deemed nearly impossible.

However, through dedicated efforts from the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) DG, chief engineer, engineers, and contractors, the seemingly daunting task became a reality.

CM Naqvi expressed gratitude to the planning and development, finance, and housing departments for their unwavering support, enabling the swift completion of Package-I within a short timeframe.

The 7.3-kilometre-long project is divided into two packages. Package-I, spanning 3.65 km, elevated the existing Bund Road by 13 feet from Niazi Interchange to Saggian, creating a four-lane dual carriageway with dedicated vehicular and pedestrian subways.

Service lanes on each side are reserved for local traffic, while access is restricted for cycles, donkey carts, motorcycles, rickshaws, etc.

The overall project cost is Rs10.8 billion, with Package-I accounting for Rs5.2 billion and Package-II for Rs6.1bn. Package-II, running from Saggian to Babu Sabu, replicates the specifications of Package-I and includes five subways.

A comprehensive study suggests that the completed project will facilitate 130,000 vehicles, providing a smooth drive on the four-lane corridor and contributing to reduced environmental pollution, time savings, energy conservation, and significant fuel cost reductions.

The corridor is anticipated to offer hassle-free access for both light and heavy transport entering or exiting the city, benefiting motorists in various localities along Bund Road, including Gulshan Ravi.

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