RAWALPINDI: In the face of severe criticism by the opposition political parties as well as road users, the PML-N-led government is likely to inaugurate metro bus service by the end of January, without waiting for the completion of Kashmir Highway interchange.
As per reports, the government seems to have been under severe pressure “apparently” in view of the criticism by political parties, especially the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), which says the government is launching the project for political mileage.
It is to be noted that the government increased cost of the project by Rs6.17 billion to Rs44.21 billion, which will be spent on Peshawar Mor Interchange.
However, the pace of work by the National Logistic Cell (NLC) on the Peshawar Mor interchange and 9th Avenue remained slow.
Keeping view that the snail’s pace of work at Peshawar Mor Interchange, its completion is anticipated in May or June next year while work on Parade Avenue is likely to be completed till March end.
However, according to the Rawalpindi Commissioner, the government has set March 23 as deadline for completion of Peshawar Mor Interchange and January 25 for the metro bus route.
He pointed out that Peshawar Mor Interchange was a separate component of the project as it will provide signal-free roads for Kashmir Highway users, and for this purpose the federal government is spending Rs6.17 billion. Four underpasses will provide free way to metro bus from Rawalpindi to Pakistan Secretariat.
