ISLAMABAD: On the direction of Chief Commissioner Islamabad and CDA Chairman Anwarul Haq, the local administration has lifted the ban on bike riding on Bhara Kahu bypass.

A few days ago, the chief commissioner had showed concerns over the closure of the Bhara Kahu bypass for motorcyclists and heavy traffic.

Assistant Commissioner Secretariat Aneel Saeed visited the bypass and directed motorcyclists to follow traffic rules while travelling on bypass road.

He also directed the traffic police to ensure all motorcyclists wear helmets.

The bypass project was completed by spending over Rs6.5 billion and officials said the cost will see an increase of over Rs1.5 billion because of the additional work. Currently, a consultant, as a third party validation, is reviewing the additional work and its cost.

CDA officials told Dawn that there was no issue in the structural stability of the bypass and it should be opened for heavy traffic as well.

They said the bypass road was closed for heavy traffic as it had a few sharp curves which could be dangerous for heavy vehicles.

However, they agreed that closure of the road for heavy traffic was not a solution, rather installation of speed breakers and signboards along with the deployment of traffic police should be ensured.

The CDA officers said steps were being taken to open the road for heavy traffic as well.

Published in Dawn, November 18th, 2023