Shaheen Underpass Set to Welcome Traffic on December 31
In a move aimed at easing traffic congestion in the capital, Islamabad, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced that the Shaheen Underpass will be opened to normal traffic from December 31, 2025. The confirmation, reported by 24NewsHD TV, follows a series of tests and final safety checks conducted by city authorities. The decision reflects the government’s ongoing focus on improving urban mobility and reducing bottlenecks on major routes feeding into the heart of the city.
What This Means for Commuters
The reopening of the Shaheen Underpass is expected to offer a smoother north-south transit option for thousands of drivers, commuters, and service vehicles daily. Local residents have long awaited the completion of the project, which promises to divert through-traffic away from surface streets and into a dedicated underground corridor. Once fully operational, the underpass should shorten travel times along the corridor, particularly during peak hours when intersections near the underpass would previously slow the flow of vehicles.
Background and Development
The Shaheen Underpass has been a centerpiece of Islamabad’s infrastructure upgrade, designed to alleviate pressure on nearby corridors and improve safety by separating urban traffic from pedestrian activity and commercial zones. While initial project milestones were met steadily, officials indicated that final testing and adjustments were required before the underpass could be opened for everyday use. The interior ministry’s involvement underscores the project’s national significance and its potential to model best practices for similar initiatives in other cities.
Safety, Compliance, and Daily Accessibility
Authorities emphasize that safety remains a top priority as the underpass transitions from a restricted testing phase to full public operation. Comprehensive checks—covering lighting, drainage, signage, and emergency protocols—are part of the pre-opening routine. Once open, traffic management plans will be implemented to ensure an orderly flow, with additional staff and digital signage guiding motorists through the new route. Local authorities also plan to gather feedback from users to address any hiccups during the initial weeks of operation.
Statements from Officials
During a visit to the Shaheen Underpass, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi highlighted the government’s commitment to urban mobility and infrastructure resilience. “Opening the Shaheen Underpass to normal traffic on December 31 marks a significant milestone for Islamabad’s transport network,” Naqvi stated. He noted that the project aligns with broader efforts to streamline city corridors, reduce travel time, and improve safety for all road users. The announcement was carried by 24NewsHD TV, which has been closely following the project’s progress.
What Happens Next?
With a formal opening date set, city planners will monitor traffic patterns, adjust signal timings, and fine-tune the integration of the underpass with surrounding routes. Commuters should stay alert for temporary traffic diversions during the initial days as drivers acclimate to the new configuration. The Shaheen Underpass is expected to serve as a critical artery in Islamabad’s evolving transportation landscape, contributing to reduced congestion and better air quality by cutting idling times on surface roads.
Public Reception and Long-Term Impact
Residents and business owners alike anticipate tangible benefits from the Shaheen Underpass opening. Reduced travel times can improve punctuality for school runs, workplace commutes, and service deliveries. The project’s success could also influence public confidence in government-led infrastructure development, encouraging further investments in mass transit options and smart traffic management solutions in the capital.
