Rawalpindi Ring Road | Complete Details, Route, Development 2025
Introduction and Background
The Rawalpindi Ring Road is set to feature five interchanges located at Banth, Chak Beli Khan, Adyala Road, Chakri Road, and Thallian. This major infrastructure project, spanning approximately 38 to 40 kilometers, is among the largest developments in the city’s history. Designed as a six-lane highway, it aims to alleviate traffic congestion and improve connectivity between different parts of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. The route will link the GT Road near Rawat to the Thallian Interchange close to Islamabad Airport, passing through key areas such as Chakbeli, Chakri, and Adyala Road. Construction commenced in March 2022.
The project includes significant infrastructure elements, such as bridges over the Soan and Sill rivers and several interchanges. Overseen by the Punjab Government with the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) as the primary authority, the Rawalpindi Ring Road is expected not only to resolve traffic challenges but also to boost the real estate market. Housing societies along or near the route, including Capital Smart City, DHA Phase 3, and Faisal Town Phase 2, have already experienced increased demand and rising property values.
Upon completion, the Rawalpindi Ring Road will consist of six lanes. As of April 2025, approximately 42% of the project has been completed, with the targeted completion date set for December 2025. The road will offer numerous benefits, such as reduced travel times and improved access to key locations like the New Islamabad International Airport. Additionally, the ring road will enhance connectivity to industrial zones. The route passes through several towns and connects major highways, including Motorway M1 (Islamabad-Peshawar), M2 (Lahore-Islamabad), and GT Road. Key landmarks along the route include:
- Rawat
- Chakbeli
- Baanth
- Muradabad
- Chakri
- Adyala Road
- Thalian Interchange
- Sangjani
About the Developers
The Rawalpindi Ring Road project is managed by the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA), with the project plan approved by the Punjab Planning and Development Wing (PPDW). The design and route were developed by Botek JV, a Turkish consulting firm. The project involves multiple stakeholders, including the National Highway Authority (NHA) and the Frontier Works Organization (FWO).
Rawalpindi Ring Road Development Plan
Following completion, all business activities are expected to shift towards the Rawalpindi Ring Road. The project is divided into two phases, with progress as follows:
| Phase | Description | Progress |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | Rawat to Thalian Interchange | 50% completed |
| Phase 2 | Thalian to Adiyala & Sangjani | 40-60% completed |
| PC-1 (Sangjani Segment) | DHA Phase 3 to AWT Plaza | Approved and under development |
Key Features of the Rawalpindi Ring Road Project
- Length: Approximately 40 km
- Width: 110 meters
- Lanes: 6
- Interchanges: 8
- Overpasses: 10
- Bridges: 13
- Pedestrian underpasses: 16
- Service areas: 4
- Estimated Cost: PKR 39 billion
- Designed daily vehicle capacity: 50,000
Rawalpindi Ring Road Development Update – 2025
As of August 2025, the 3.8 km segment from DHA Phase 3 to AWT Plaza Sangjani received approval. This section will be developed jointly by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and the National Highway Authority (NHA), with CDA responsible for 1.4 km and NHA handling 2.4 km. This milestone connects a key housing area (DHA Phase 3) to Sangjani, facilitating further development towards GT Road and the M-1 Motorway.
Planning is also underway for the next 13.5 km stretch from Thalian to Hakla, which will be developed subsequently.
Expected Completion Date
According to official Punjab government sources, the Rawalpindi Ring Road project is scheduled for completion by December 2025. Initially proposed in 1997, the project faced several delays but was relaunched between 2017 and 2020. Construction resumed in 2023, with the current deadline set for the end of 2025.
Impact on Housing Societies
The Ring Road links major highways such as GT Road, M-1, and M-2 with various towns and housing societies. Key beneficiaries include:
- Faisal Town Phase 2
- Capital Smart City (Interchange 4)
- Blue World City (Chakri Road Interchange)
- Defence Housing Authority (DHA Phase 3)
- Top City 1 Islamabad
- Rudn Enclave Rawalpindi (Adyala Interchange)
- Gulberg Islamabad (N5 Interchange)
Benefits for Investors and Residents
Investors in these societies can expect property values to appreciate, while the improved connectivity offers convenience for residents.
Makaan Solutions is available to assist with transparent and smooth property reservations.
Major Benefits of the Rawalpindi Ring Road
The project is expected to reduce vehicular noise, air pollution, and fuel consumption within urban areas. It will be transformative for both real estate and infrastructure in the region. Key benefits include:
Enhanced Connectivity
Improved and faster access to societies like Capital Smart City, Blue World City, DHA Phase 3, Faisal Town Phase 2, and Top City 1 will facilitate easier travel to the airport, motorways, and other cities, making these areas more attractive for living and investment.
Reduced Traffic Congestion
By diverting heavy traffic away from Rawalpindi’s inner city, the Ring Road will ease congestion, making urban roads safer, cleaner, and more navigable.
Rising Property Values
Land prices near the Ring Road have already increased and are expected to continue rising as the project progresses, benefiting current and prospective property owners.
New Economic and Commercial Zones
The government plans to establish Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and commercial areas along the Ring Road, including offices and industrial hubs. These developments will create jobs, attract residents, and increase demand for housing and land.
Improved Access to Islamabad Airport
Direct connection to Islamabad International Airport enhances convenience for frequent travelers and workers in nearby areas. Societies close to this interchange, such as Capital Smart City and Top City 1, stand to gain the most.
Conclusion
The Rawalpindi Ring Road is one of the most anticipated public infrastructure projects in the region. With PC-1 approval and multiple sections under active development, the project is progressing steadily. It promises to alleviate traffic congestion and transform the real estate landscape of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.