The repair of the Rawalpindi-Islamabad metro bus elevated track from Saddar to Faizabad is set to begin soon, as five firms have qualified to participate in the bidding process.
The repair work is estimated to cost Rs. 625 million, with additional expenses. The Punjab Masstransit Authority has allocated Rs. 740 million for this purpose.
Following the repair of the elevated track from Saddar to Faizabad, the next phase will involve repairing the metro track from Faizabad to the Pakistan Secretariat in Islamabad.
An official from the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) stated that the bidding for this project will take place next week. He mentioned that work on the project is expected to start later this month and should be completed within 10 days.
The official also noted that Nespak recommended the repair work after conducting a survey. The Punjab Mass Transit Authority has assigned the RDA to carry out these repairs.
It’s worth mentioning that the Twin Cities metro bus project was completed by the authority in 2015. The provincial government will provide funds for the repair work.
During a discussion with a national daily, Uzair Shah, General Manager (Operations) of the Punjab Mass Transit Authority, attributed the damage to the tracks to heavy rains over the past few years.
He mentioned that a decision has been made to replace the tough tiles on the pavements with concrete pavements. Additionally, potholes in the corridors of the bus stations will be repaired.
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The metro bus service will continue operating without suspension during the track maintenance. The metro bus corridor covers a total length of 23 kilometers, divided into various sections.
In Rawalpindi, the metro bus service runs from Flashman’s Hotel to Faizabad, covering a distance of 8.6 kilometers, all elevated. In Islamabad, the service covers 14.6 kilometers at ground level, starting from Faizabad to Pak Secretariat via IJP Road and 9th Avenue.