Rawalpindi Unveils First Walking Street, Inspired by London’s Kensington High Street
- Sara Habib
- February 26, 2025
- 10:00 am
- 33
- Current Affairs
Rawalpindi has unveiled its first underground cabling-based walking street in Saddar’s commercial hub. Bank Road, one of the busiest shopping streets, now offers a modern and pedestrian-friendly experience. The inauguration takes place today, with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz as the chief guest. Other notable attendees include Secretary of Defence Lt-Gen (retd) Muhammad Ali and MLC Director General Irfan Ahmed Malik.
A Modern Makeover for Bank Road
This transformation cost Rs1.2 billion and covers a one-kilometre stretch from Murree Road to Police Station Road. The area, home to major brand outlets, now boasts a clean and organized look.
Key Features of the Project
The first phase of development focused on shifting all overhead cables underground. This includes electricity, telephone lines, and heavy transformers. Other improvements include:
New sewage system
Tough tiling for durability
Spacious footpaths
Beautiful benches for visitors
Modern lighting system
Food cabins for quality snacks and drinks
Executive washrooms for shoppers and families
Four Blocks with Dedicated Walking Space
Bank Road is now divided into four blocks, each designed for pedestrians only. Heavy gates are placed at the start and end of each block for security. However, Canning Road and Kashmir Road remain open for vehicle traffic.
Free Shuttle Service with Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles now operate within all four blocks, providing free shuttle services. This addition makes shopping more convenient, especially for families and elderly visitors.
A Bustling Shopping Destination
The redesigned Bank Road has become Rawalpindi’s busiest and most scenic walking street. The number of visitors increases significantly in the evenings, creating a lively and enjoyable shopping atmosphere.
More Roads to Get Underground Cabling
The underground cabling project is expanding to more areas. According to Rashid Saqib, Assistant Secretary and Spokesperson of the Cantonment Board Rawalpindi, work is in progress on:
Haider Road
Kashmir Road
Adamji Road
Mall Road
In addition, business hubs like Saddar Bazaar, Hospital Road, Hathi Chowk, Coal Centre, and Police Station Road will soon be part of this beautification plan.
Signal-Free Intersections on Mall Road
A new project aims to make major intersections on Mall Road signal-free. Work has started at:
Five Star Hotel Chowk
TM Chowk
Mall Plaza Chowk
The plan includes an underground pedestrian street between Medical Stores Plaza and the Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology on Mall Road. The formal launch of this initiative will take place soon.
Project Timeline and Budget
The Punjab government is investing Rs4.38 billion in this project. It is expected to be completed within six months. Once finished, the three intersections on Mall Road will be traffic signal-free, reducing congestion and improving traffic flow.
Why This Project Matters
This initiative enhances Rawalpindi’s commercial areas, making them more pedestrian-friendly. Shoppers can now enjoy a safe and pleasant environment, free from tangled wires and traffic disruptions.
