Rawalpindi to Open First Walking Street on Bank Road

Rawalpindi’s underground cabling-based first walking street, located on Bank Road in Saddar, is set to be inaugurated on February 26th. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is expected to attend the inauguration. Moreover, the project cost 1.2 billion rupees and is approximately 1 kilometer long.

Rawalpindi is set to unveil its first walking street on Bank Road in Saddar’s busy commercial district on February 26. The grand opening will be attended by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz as the chief guest, along with key officials, including Secretary of Defence Lt-Gen (retd) Muhammad Ali and MLC Director General Irfan Ahmed Malik.

A Modern Makeover for Bank Road

This one-kilometer pedestrian-friendly zone, developed at a cost of Rs1.2 billion, stretches from Murree Road to Police Station Road. Known for its premium brand outlets, the area has undergone a major transformation. Overhead cables, poles, and transformers have been removed, with all utility services now placed underground.

The walking street features new wide footpaths, durable tiling, decorative benches, a modern lighting system, and food cabins offering high-quality refreshments. Moreover, executive washrooms have also been installed for visitors’ convenience.

First Walking Street Is Pedestrian-Friendly Space

The street has been divided into four blocks, each equipped with gated entrances and exits. While Canning Road and Kashmir Road remain open for vehicles, Bank Road itself is now restricted to pedestrians. To enhance accessibility, electric shuttle services are available across all four blocks, free of cost.

As evening approaches, the area comes alive with increased foot traffic. Conversely, more shoppers and visitors enjoy the lively ambiance of the new pedestrian street.

Further Beautification Projects Underway

According to Rashid Saqib, Assistant Secretary and Spokesperson for the Cantonment Board Rawalpindi, similar underground cabling projects are in progress on Haider Road, Kashmir Road, Adamji Road, and Mall Road. Additional beautification efforts aim to enhance business hubs like Saddar Bazaar, Hospital Road, Hathi Chowk, and Coal Centre.

Plans are also in place to make Mall Road signal-free by upgrading key intersections such as Five Star Hotel Chowk, TM Chowk, and Mall Plaza Chowk. A new underground pedestrian street will link Medical Stores Plaza to the Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology. The Punjab government has allocated Rs 4.38 billion for this project, which is expected to be completed within six months.

The launch of Rawalpindi’s first walking street marks a significant step toward a more modern and pedestrian-friendly cityscape.