By Abdul Samad Tariq ISLAMABAD, Sep 24 (APP):The newly opened Margalla Enclave Underpass on Park Road has begun attracting public attention not only for easing traffic movement but also for its illuminated interior and colourful artwork, with commuters stopping to photograph the newly developed facility. The underpass is part of the wider Park Road infrastructure project aimed at improving connectivity and traffic flow along one of the capital’s important road …
Margalla Enclave Underpass eases Park Road traffic, draws public attention
By Abdul Samad Tariq
ISLAMABAD, Sep 24 (APP):The newly opened Margalla Enclave Underpass on Park Road has begun attracting public attention not only for easing traffic movement but also for its illuminated interior and colourful artwork, with commuters stopping to photograph the newly developed facility.
The underpass is part of the wider Park Road infrastructure project aimed at improving connectivity and traffic flow along one of the capital’s important road corridors and adjoining residential areas.
The facility has become particularly noticeable after months of construction-related disruption, during which commuters faced traffic diversions, dust and prolonged travelling times.
Several commuters interviewed by APP at the site said journeys that had previously taken around one and a half hours during the construction period were now being completed within minutes.
“There was a huge hassle. The commute used to take around one and a half hours. Now it gives a very luxurious feeling,” said a commuter who had recently returned from Saudi Arabia, adding that the facility reminded him of infrastructure he had seen there.
Another commuter said the journey, which previously took considerably longer because of congestion, dust and construction activity, had become much easier.
“For the last three or four days, whenever we pass through this route, it gives a very good feeling. It feels as if we are travelling on infrastructure built to international standards,” he said.
The visual treatment of the Margalla Enclave Underpass has also emerged as a talking point. Colourful artwork on the walls, complemented by decorative lighting, has given the structure a distinctive appearance, particularly after sunset.
Motorists and visitors have been seen taking photographs and selfies at the site, turning the underpass into a new visual feature along Park Road.
A commuter said he had not expected the project to be developed on such a scale.
“I did not think such a grand underpass would be built. I pay tribute to those who constructed it. It has added to the beauty of Islamabad,” he said.
The underpass forms part of the broader Rs10 billion Park Road infrastructure scheme, which includes road and connectivity improvements.
The project had caused considerable inconvenience to residents and commuters during construction, particularly those travelling towards Margalla Enclave, Park View City, Bahria Enclave, Shahzad Town and adjoining areas.
The opening has now shifted attention towards the facility’s longer-term impact on traffic flow and travelling times.
The public response has also generated a demand for similar improvements in other parts of the capital. One commuter called for pedestrian bridges of comparable quality at busy locations to improve road safety.
“After this underpass, the vibe of Islamabad will be different. Just as this underpass has been developed well, two or three good pedestrian bridges should also be built to improve people’s safety,” he said.
While the underpass was primarily developed as a transport facility, its artwork and lighting have given it an additional public dimension, with its appearance attracting visitors alongside regular commuters.
For the Capital Development Authority, maintaining the structure, lighting and artwork will now be important to preserving the appearance of the facility as traffic volumes increase.
For commuters who endured months of diversions and delays, however, the principal measure of the project will remain its ability to provide sustained improvement in traffic movement and reduce travelling time along Park Road.
