Delay in completion of the underground bridge meant for pedestrians on Jinnah Avenue near F-9 Park has become a growing source of inconvenience for residents of G-9 Sector, park visitors and the customers of the New Blue Arae (across F-9 Park) who want to cross the road from G-9 side and visit the park.
Intended to ease crossing of the busy Jinnah Avenue and improve connectivity, the project has instead caused prolonged disruption due to delays in completion by the Capital Development Authority (CDA).
Jinnah Avenue serves as a major link between several residential and commercial sectors of the federal capital. The pedestrians’ underground bridge project was launched with the objective of facilitating smoother traffic flow and reducing pressure on existing intersections. However, months after the commencement of construction, the project remains unfinished, creating daily challenges for motorists and pedestrians alike.
Residents of G-9 Sector report significant increases in risk of crossing the Jinnah Avenue, waste of time, particularly during peak hours.
Traffic congestion has become a routine feature of the area, affecting office-goers, students, and public transport users. Inadequate traffic management and the absence of clearly marked alternative routes have further aggravated the situation, often resulting in confusion and traffic bottlenecks.
The prolonged construction has also raised safety concerns. Open excavations, uneven road surfaces, and construction debris pose risks to both vehicles and pedestrians. During rainfall, water accumulation in partially constructed sections creates additional hazards and disrupts traffic flow. Moreover, dust and noise pollution from the site have adversely affected nearby residential areas, impacting the quality of life for local residents.
Despite repeated concerns voiced by citizens, visible progress on the project remains limited. The lack of a clear completion timeline has led to public frustration and uncertainty. As a key civic institution, the CDA is expected to ensure timely execution of development projects, particularly those affecting daily urban mobility.
Islamabad is often regarded as a well-planned city, and efficient infrastructure development is central to maintaining this image. Delays in public projects not only inconvenience citizens but also undermine confidence in municipal governance. Transparency regarding project timelines and regular updates could help address public concerns and restore trust. There is an urgent need for the CDA to expedite work on the Jinnah Avenue underground bridge.
