RAWALPINDI: The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) Chairman Tariq Mehmood Murtaza on Thursday said that the RDA was proactively working to start Rs58 billion Ring Road project by March next year after approval of PC-I of the project.

Addressing the business community at the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI), he said Rs56 billion Leh Expressway project would operate under a public-private partnership.

Bab-i-Rawalpindi will be installed on the entrance of the city, he said. The RDA chairman said a management cell was also being activated which would address citizens’ problems under one-window operation.

The RDA chairman said his office would collaborate and interact with key stakeholders and chamber for face-lifting of city under glorious Rawalpindi project.

He appreciated RCCI’s suggestions for the city’s beauty and pledged to incorporate all stakeholders input in the city’s development plans.

Under green Rawalpindi, trees will be planted in the city and on G.T. Road, he added.

Speaking on the occasion, RCCI President Saboor Malik said the Ring Road project was the future of Rawalpindi city. The relocation of cottage industry, grain market, furniture and marble will lower the traffic burden in the city.

He said the new parking plaza would be set up in different markets and a comprehensive plan would be adopted to address the encroachment issue on permanent basis.

“The Lahore safe city project must be replicated in Rawalpindi at the earliest. RDA must enhance its capacity to provide maximum facility to people,” he said.

NOC for high-rise buildings should be issued without any hassle and urged to amend buildings codes and by-laws as per new demand of the city.

He said land would be acquired for the cemetery. He asked RCCI to give names for the RDA board.

All public projects must be completed without any political affiliation, he said.

RCCI President Sabor Malik also gave a briefing on RCCI current and upcoming events.

Published in Dawn, November 8th, 2019