Punjab Govt to Shift Major Bus Stands of Twin Cities to Ring Road
In a major move to reduce traffic congestion, the Punjab government has decided to relocate key bus stands and transport terminals of Rawalpindi and Islamabad to the Rawalpindi Ring Road.
The Pirwadhai General Bus Stand, along with terminals at Faizabad, Chungi No. 26, and several other city hubs, will be shifted to designated points near the Ring Road. This shift aims to prevent heavy transport vehicles from entering city limits, thus improving traffic flow and reducing pollution.
According to officials, Pirwadhai Bus Stand will come under the full ownership of the Punjab government and serve as a central hub for local and intercity transport between Rawalpindi and Islamabad. The government will also run local bus services from Pirwadhai to various city areas, making it a key node for daily commuters.
Currently, the Rawalpindi Ring Road construction is nearing completion, especially the stretch connecting Rawat to Islamabad International Airport. Once fully operational, the Ring Road will connect with the motorway and GT Road, providing an effective bypass to divert heavy and long-distance vehicles away from congested urban areas.
Additionally, traffic coming from Peshawar will be assigned a terminal near Islamabad International Airport, while vehicles from Azad Kashmir (via Murree) will be stopped near Bharakahu. Traffic from other districts will enter the city via Rawat and join the Ring Road to avoid entering the congested city center.
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Officials expect these changes to significantly reduce road damage, traffic jams, and air pollution in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. However, authorities also anticipate some resistance from transport unions, recalling previous protests during the 1975 relocation of the Pirwadhai Bus Stand.
This comprehensive relocation plan aims to modernize the twin cities’ public transport infrastructure and improve the daily commute for thousands of residents.
