Despite Pakistan’s ongoing economic crisis, the long-awaited Shahdara flyover project is now in full swing, hoping to solve one of Lahore’s most traffic-congested areas. In this article, we will review the construction updates of the revised plan of Shahdara flyover project, the Imamiya Colony flyover project, and the extension of the metro bus service. Additionally, we will look into the traffic plan implemented during the construction period, ensuring a smooth flow of traffic. Although challenges remain, the project is targeted for completion by the end of August 2023, which will provide relief to commuters and increase transportation in the city.
Shahdara Flyover Revised Plan & Updates
The Punjab government has finally initiated the construction of the Shahdara Flyover with the help of the federal government. The primary objective of this project is to alleviate traffic congestion and facilitate smooth crossing at Shahdara Chowk because it is the busiest entrance to Lahore.
Recognizing the significance of this project, the authorities have revised the initial plans to ensure an effective and efficient solution for the diverse travel routes that utilize this road crossing. Following are the features of Plan Option – 1.
- Flyovers on GT Road towards Gujranwala.
- Second Stage Flyover on GT Road towards Sheikhupura Road.
- Flyover on Imamia colony railway crossing.
- Metro Bus Service extension to Kala Shah Kaku.
- 4 Metro Bus Stations.
- Development of 3 Lane Expressway on each side to Kala Shah Kaku.
- Development of 2 Lane service road on each side.
- Separate 2-Lane Metro Bus Expressway.
- Round About at Shahdara Chowk.
- Rehabilitation of existing structures.
In June 2023, a revised plan for the Shahdara Flyover project was introduced, resulting in the cancellation of the construction of the second-stage flyover project towards Sheikhupura. The main factor contributing to this decision was the insufficient budget allocated for the project. The dismissal of the second stage flyover was influenced by several reasons.
Initially, it was expected that traffic would smoothly flow through a spacious expressway from GT Road, utilizing the Imamiya Colony Flyover and the Shahdara Flyover. However, concerns arose regarding congestion issues that would arise at the Narrow Ravi Bridge, leading to the reconsideration of the project.
Another significant factor that played a crucial role in the development of a new plan was the absence of the Saggian Bypass during the initial proposal which was designed years ago. With the subsequent development of the 6-lane expressway of the Saggian Bypass, a significant portion of traffic entering Lahore now utilizes this route.
Rather than allocating additional funds and attempting to resolve the congestion problems at Ravi Bridge, the government opted for an alternative plan due to budgetary constraints. The funds initially designated for the second stage flyover were redirected toward the construction of a new 4-lane Ravi Bridge.
Following are the initial & Revised Plans for Shahdara Flyover Project:
On-Ground Updates of Shahdara Flyover
The foundation and piling work of the Shahdara Flyover Project is almost completed. The following images will help you to understand the status of the Shahdara Flyover Project.
Completion Plans of the Shahdara Flyover Project
Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif directed to complete the Shahdara Chowk flyover in three months instead of eight. Visited the project site. Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif was given a detailed briefing on behalf of the government officials regarding the project. The Prime Minister asked the officers how many months the project will be completed, on which he was told that it will be completed in eight months.
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif said to complete the Shahdara Chowk Project in three months, earlier such projects have been completed in this period, work round the clock and complete the project in three months. Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif was also briefed on the plan to extend the metro bus service to Kala Shah Kaku.
Traffic Plan for Shahdara Flyover Construction:
To minimize disruptions and ensure the smooth flow of traffic during the construction phase, the Lahore City Traffic Police has implemented a comprehensive traffic plan.
Commuters are urged to follow the instructions and cooperate with the traffic wardens to mitigate inconveniences. The plan comes into effect from February 18, 2023, and will remain in place until the project’s completion. Patience and adherence to traffic guidelines are crucial to facilitate the construction process and enable the construction team to work efficiently.
During the construction period, Shahdara Chowk will be closed to heavy vehicles. The Traffic Police have identified three alternate routes to divert traffic and ease congestion:
- Eastern Bypass/Motorway: Heavy and slow-moving commercial vehicles traveling from Kala Shah Kaku and Kala Khatai to Lahore can use the Eastern Bypass or Motorway as an entry point.
- Saggian: Traffic coming from Faisalabad and Sheikhupura can utilize the Saggian route to enter Lahore.
- Diversion for Heavy Vehicles: Heavy vehicles originating from Kala Shah Kaku and Begum Kot Chowk will be diverted to alternative routes during the construction phase.
Undertaking such a large infrastructure project in the midst of an economic crisis presents its fair share of challenges. Acquiring sufficient funds, managing construction timelines, coordinating with multiple stakeholders, and solving logistical problems are some of the hurdles authorities face. However, the commitment shown by the Punjab government to move forward with these projects reflects their determination to overcome these challenges and provide better transportation infrastructure for Lahore.