Report: ANI
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed his commitment to serving the nation, promoting Pakistan's development and securing a prominent position for the country internationally, saying the completion of the Kashmir Chowk Underpass in just 27 days reflects exceptional teamwork and preparations for next year's SCO Summit.
Addressing the inauguration ceremony on Thursday, the Prime Minister said the project included a 500-metre underpass, a network of four kilometres of roads, two Kashmir-themed monuments and thousands of new trees. He said the project would help ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity between Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Murree and Azad Kashmir.
Shehbaz Sharif congratulated Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, the CDA Chairman, contractors and relevant officials for completing the project within the stipulated short period. He said the project had been completed at a cost of Rs1.45 billion, with the contract awarded approximately 2.5 per cent below the estimated cost through transparent procurement and the e-PADS system.
The Prime Minister said improved traffic management and beautification of Islamabad were essential ahead of the SCO Summit and other major international events scheduled for next year.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said 6,340 new shade trees had been planted under the project, while existing trees were protected and relocated. He also announced plans to further expand Islamabad's greenery and said international consultants had been engaged for the proposed safari park.
He further said the federal cabinet had approved the JIT report concerning One Constitution Avenue and that the property had been returned to CDA. The building would be converted into a five-star hotel in accordance with its original purpose.
The Prime Minister expressed confidence that collective efforts, hard work and transparency would help Pakistan achieve its development goals.
