The government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has given the official go-ahead for the construction of a new Outer Ring Road spanning approximately 31 kilometers in the southern region of Peshawar. This ambitious infrastructure project is designed to significantly reduce the persistent traffic bottlenecks that have long plagued the city’s southern corridors, while simultaneously fostering enhanced commercial activity in the area.
In a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, detailed discussions were held regarding the planning and implementation of this vital road network. The Chief Minister highlighted that this Outer Ring Road will serve as a crucial artery, diverting heavy traffic away from the city center and streamlining transportation flow. The initiative is expected to not only improve daily commutes for residents but also create new opportunities for trade and economic development along its route.
Officials presented an initial financial assessment, estimating the project’s cost to be between 50 and 60 billion Pakistani Rupees. This substantial investment underscores the government’s commitment to modernizing Peshawar’s infrastructure and addressing urban mobility challenges. CM Afridi emphasized the importance of incorporating well-designed interchanges to facilitate smooth traffic transitions and enhance public convenience throughout the corridor.
One of the key directives from the Chief Minister was to ensure close coordination with the National Highway Authority (NHA). This collaboration aims to establish a dedicated interchange at the Peshawar Bus Terminal, enabling buses to enter and exit the city efficiently without contributing to congestion on existing roadways. Such strategic planning is expected to improve public transport accessibility and reduce travel times for commuters.
Moreover, the government is actively exploring the feasibility of integrating a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system along the new Outer Ring Road. This potential addition would provide a modern, efficient public transport option that complements the road infrastructure, further easing traffic pressures and promoting sustainable urban mobility. The review of the BRT track’s inclusion is underway, reflecting the administration’s forward-looking approach to urban planning.
Overall, the approval of the Outer Ring Road project marks a significant step forward in addressing Peshawar’s growing transportation demands. By alleviating congestion in the southern parts of the city and encouraging commercial growth, the project is poised to enhance the quality of life for residents and support the region’s economic vitality in the years to come.
