ISLAMABAD — Authorities have announced plans to begin work next month on a major highway project designed to connect Islamabad directly to the M-1 Motorway via Margalla Road, a development expected to significantly improve travel within the capital.
According to official sources, the total highway stretch will cover over five kilometres. The Capital Development Authority (CDA) will fund 2.7 kilometres of the project, while the National Highway Authority (NHA) will construct the remaining 2.3 kilometres under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP), with a budget allocation of Rs6 billion. NHA will also manage the associated land acquisition costs.
A review meeting held at CDA Headquarters on Monday, chaired by CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa, examined progress on this and other key development initiatives. Presentations included detailed technical plans for expanding Margalla Avenue from N-5 to M-1 and the construction of an interchange on 17th Avenue at H-16. Feasibility studies and preliminary designs for the interchange have already been completed in consultation with experts.
The CDA Chairman instructed that all engineering and technical specifications be rigorously reviewed and incorporated into the final designs. He further directed that the tendering process be completed within the coming week, noting that initial funding for the project has already been released.
Once completed, the highway will offer a seamless route connecting Islamabad to the M-1 Motorway via GT Road (N-5), enhancing accessibility for residents of peripheral areas and improving overall urban mobility. Chairman Randhawa emphasised that swift execution of these projects is crucial for modernising the capital, improving urban planning, and ensuring public convenience.
He concluded by reiterating that all available resources are being mobilised to turn Islamabad into a modern, world-class capital.
