RDA plans pedestrian zones to tackle traffic congestion

RAWALPINDI: The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) has launched an ambitious project to tackle traffic congestion and pollution in the city.

The plan involves transforming select markets into pedestrian-only zones, expanding parking facilities, and creating dedicated cycle and motorcycle tracks along key routes, specifically from Katchery Chowk to Murree Road, Faizabad.

This initiative aims to reduce the number of cars and motorbikes in narrow market streets, which contribute to both traffic congestion and air pollution.

RDA Director General Kinza Murtaza emphasized the authority’s efforts to curb illegal housing schemes, having taken action against over 200 unapproved projects that have defrauded citizens.

Murtaza advised citizens to verify the legitimacy of any housing scheme with RDA before investing. Additionally, the RDA has banned new housing developments on agricultural land and implemented measures to prevent illegal tree-cutting.

The RDA has partnered with the Municipal Corporation to improve urban mobility by clearing encroachments along the Katchery Chowk to Murree Road corridor, including footpaths.

By designating busy commercial areas as pedestrian-only streets and providing expanded parking facilities, the authority hopes to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution. Murtaza stressed the need for collective action to combat the growing problem of smog.