Tentative timeline announced for Walton Road’s partial opening
24-9-2024
Lahore: The Walton Road upgrade project is set to partially reopen for traffic by the end of September, with officials reporting that 70% of the asphalt work has been completed, as Read: Walton Road Upgradation Project: Asphalt layering commences This comprehensive project includes the relocation of the ADA drain, the remodeling of Walton Road, and the construction of wastewater disposal stations, all aimed at creating a signal-free thoroughfare. Package-2 of the project, which involved the construction of the Ghora Chowk/Karnal Sher Khan flyover, has already been finished and is currently open to traffic. Executive Director (Technical) of the Punjab Central Business District Development Authority (PCBDDA) Mr. Riaz Hussain stated that while the contractual deadline for the overall project is set for February 28, 2025, the Punjab Chief Minister has prioritised the early completion of at least one side of the three-lane carriageway to alleviate public mobility issues. “We plan to open one side for motorists by September 30, with the other side of the 4.3 km stretch from Qainchi to Ghora Chowk also expected to be completed by the end of next month,” he noted. Valued at PKR 9.573 billion, the “Remodeling and Upgrade of ADA Nullah and Walton Road Lahore” project is a collaborative effort between the PCBDDA, the National Logistics Corporation (NLC), and Nespak, who are serving as contractor and consultant, respectively. Read: Walton Road gets modern sewerage solution as ADA Nullah diverts Since the project’s initiation in October of last year, its scope has included laying a trunk sewer (1.7 km pipeline, 2.7 km conduit), relocating the ADA Nullah (3.2 km), and constructing various structures, including the MM Ishaq Shaheed flyover (Defence Morr), the Kernal Sher Khan Flyover (Ghora Chowk), four protected U-turns, four pedestrian bridges, and two disposal stations. The total drainage system will extend 5.8 km. “We are on track to complete the entire project ahead of the February 2025 deadline,” asserted Mr. Hussain, emphasizing the authority’s commitment to quality work across all project components. Read: Completing Walton Road Upgradation Project is CBD’s top priority The PCBDDA management confirmed that significant progress has been made, with 70% of the asphalt work completed on the stretch from Defence Mor to Qainchi. Currently, 500-600 tons of asphalt are being laid in each shift. Following the successful relocation of the ADA drain, the team has begun demolishing the drain walls and constructing the service road. Asphalt work on the Major Ishaq Shaheed flyover is expected to commence shortly. “Once the carriageways are operational, remaining work will continue concurrently to ensure timely completion,” he added.