CDA Approves New Smart Underpass to End Kashmir Chowk Congestion
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has officially greenlit the construction of a new “Smart Underpass” at Kashmir Chowk, aiming to eliminate one of Islamabad’s most notorious traffic bottlenecks. This project is a centerpiece of the “Islamabad Vision 2027” roadmap, a two-year development drive designed to modernize the capital’s infrastructure.
To ensure rapid progress, the Interior Minister has issued a strict 10-day deadline for the submission of the final project design. This move follows a string of successful infrastructure completions in the city, signaling a shift toward fast-tracked urban development.
Focus on Signal-Free Mobility
The proposed underpass is designed to provide a signal-free corridor for commuters traveling from Bara Kahu and Murree towards the city center.
According to CDA officials, the “smart” element of the underpass will likely include modern surveillance integrated with the Safe City Project and energy-efficient lighting systems. This follows the design logic of the recently opened Shaheen Chowk underpass, which has already begun easing traffic on Margalla Road.
Building on Recent Successes
The urgency of the Kashmir Chowk project comes on the heels of the completion of the Shaheen Chowk Underpass. In a rare feat for public infrastructure, the CDA completed the Shaheen Chowk project in just 63 days, officially opening it to the public on December 31, 2025.
Broader Development Goals for 2026
The underpass is just one part of a broader facelift for the capital. During the same session, Minister Mohsin Naqvi approved several other high-profile initiatives, including:
A State-of-the-Art Cricket Stadium: Planned for the foothills of the Margalla Hills near Sector D-12.
Luxury Hospitality: The hiring of international firms to develop a five-star hotel on long-vacant commercial plots.
Safe City Expansion: Utilizing advanced AI-driven technology to enhance city-wide surveillance.
The CDA is also prioritizing the hospitality sector and modern waste management to align Islamabad with international “model city” standards.
