ISLAMABAD — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Friday that Pakistan will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in 2027, instructing authorities to begin preparations well ahead of time.
The premier made the announcement while inaugurating the T-Chowk Flyover, a project he described as a major development for the residents of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and surrounding areas. He said the government plans to construct new accommodations and launch beautification projects in the capital as part of the summit preparations. He also noted that Tajikistan has gifted saplings for plantation, and the CDA along with other teams has already begun the greening drive.
Highlighting the significance of the new infrastructure, Shehbaz said the one-kilometre-long flyover at the intersection of T-Road and the Islamabad Expressway will help ease traffic congestion for tens of thousands of commuters between the twin cities. He also underlined that the proposed Rail Car project will provide further relief to residents, promising that all developmental initiatives will be carried out to the highest quality standards.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who also attended the ceremony, assured that the flyover will be completed in 150 days while maintaining top-notch construction quality. Officials briefed the premier that the Rs1.495 billion project will serve around 41,572 vehicles daily and is expected to be completed by February 9, 2026.
The project, funded through CDA’s self-financing, was designed without the need for land acquisition an approach that saved nearly Rs7 billion, according to officials. Minister Naqvi praised the CDA, NESPAK, and other stakeholders for efficiently planning the flyover, ensuring both cost-effectiveness and timely execution.
