Key Takeaways
- Rawalpindi administration mandates NOC for road excavation.
- Commissioner Ghani emphasizes coordination and restoration.
- PTCL and WASA receive approvals for specific projects.
The Rawalpindi divisional administration has issued a directive requiring utility service providers to obtain prior approval and a no-objection certificate (NOC) before undertaking any road-cutting activities. This move aims to streamline the process and prevent unnecessary disruptions to residents and traffic.
Commissioner Rawalpindi, Salman Ghani, stated during a meeting that repeated road excavation in urban areas has caused significant inconvenience to residents and wasted public resources. He emphasized the need for better coordination among relevant departments and service providers to avoid repeated digging.
Ghani directed that road cutting should be a last resort and encouraged the use of alternatives such as thrust boring and ducting. He also ordered that any road damaged during approved work must be restored to its original standard within 15 days, with refilling and reconstruction completed promptly.
During the meeting, the administration approved PTCL’s request for an NOC to carry out work in Shah Khalid Colony Phase II, with a two-day completion deadline. Similarly, the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) received permission to lay a 12-inch sewer line at Al-Khidmat Al-Razi Children’s Hospital, with a seven-day completion period and an alternative traffic route to remain available during construction.
The directive underscores the administration’s commitment to efficient and sustainable urban development. By ensuring that all road-cutting activities are properly planned and executed, the Rawalpindi divisional administration aims to minimize disruptions and enhance the overall quality of life for its residents.
The new regulations are expected to improve the coordination and efficiency of utility work in the city, reducing the frequency of repeated excavations and ensuring that any damage is promptly repaired. This approach is seen as a significant step towards more organized and sustainable urban management.
The administration’s emphasis on coordination and restoration highlights the importance of planning and communication in urban development. By requiring NOCs and setting strict deadlines, the Rawalpindi divisional administration is taking proactive steps to address the issues caused by repeated road cutting.
The directive also aims to streamline the process for utility providers, ensuring that all necessary permissions are obtained before starting any work. This will help in avoiding delays and ensuring that projects are completed on time and to the required standards.





