CDA to Execute 11th Avenue Project in Two Phases

Key Takeaways

CDA plans to construct 11th Avenue in two phases, starting from E-11 to Srinagar Highway.
First phase will cost around Rs11 to 12 billion and is expected to be completed within a year.
Project aims to reduce traffic load on Margalla Road and Srinagar Highway.

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has announced plans to execute the 11th Avenue project in two phases, starting from E-11 to Srinagar Highway. This decision was made during a recent meeting, with the first phase set to commence within two months.

According to an engineer from the CDA, the first phase will cover a 3.5km stretch and include an interchange at Srinagar Highway. The project is expected to be completed within a year, with a total cost of around Rs24.5 billion.

The second phase will connect the completed portion with Margalla Avenue, aiming to reduce traffic load on both Margalla Road and Srinagar Highway. The engineer stated that the project will be formally started within two months, pending the completion of the pre-tendering process.

During the first phase, 17 bridges and overpasses will be constructed, with the project expected to be completed by the end of the year. The engineer added that the cost for this portion of the project is estimated to be around Rs11 to 12 billion.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had laid the foundation stone of 11th Avenue in June 2023, but the project was not started. The avenue is supposed to start from IJP ll allRoad and culminate at the E-11 interchange, passing through several other major roads.

The CDA has also highlighted the need to complete the stalled 10th Avenue project, which was halted due to the non-release of funds. The total cost of the 10th Avenue project was Rs10.2 billion, but only around Rs4 billion had been released by the federal government.

CDA officials have requested the federal government several times for the release of funds, but to no avail. The original plan was to complete the 10th Avenue project by December 2024, but due to the lack of funds, the project was halted.

The 11th Avenue project is expected to significantly improve traffic flow in Islamabad, reducing congestion on existing roads and providing a much-needed alternative route for commuters.