Punjab Government Greenlights Major Underpass Project in Gujar Khan
The Punjab government has officially approved a substantial allocation of Rs 3,088.4 million for the construction of two underpasses on GT Road in Gujar Khan. This strategic initiative is designed to significantly improve traffic flow and reduce the frequency of accidents in the area, addressing long-standing concerns about vehicular movement and safety on this busy highway.
Project Details and Site Locations
According to sources within the Punjab Highway Department, the two underpasses will be strategically positioned at key locations. One underpass will be built at Guliana Morr, while the other will be constructed near the Technical Training College on GT Road. These sites were selected to streamline traffic within the town and mitigate the risks associated with the high-volume highway, which has been a hotspot for traffic mishaps.
Land Clearance and Impact on Local Traders
In preparation for the project, the local administration has already undertaken demolition activities to clear the right of way (ROW). Several structures, including a Police Khidmat Centre, public toilets, and numerous kiosks, have been removed. It is estimated that over 315 additional kiosks and some other buildings are likely to be demolished in the coming days to facilitate the construction.
This clearance has sparked serious concerns among small traders who operate these kiosks. They have expressed fears over the loss of their livelihoods, particularly amid rising inflation. In response, these traders have appealed directly to Chief Minister Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, urging the government to allocate alternate sites so they can continue earning and sustain their businesses.
Political Support and Advocacy
On the political front, PML-N MPA Raja Shauket Aziz Bhatti has submitted an adjournment motion in the Punjab Assembly. While he welcomed the mega project as a positive development for the region, he emphasized the need for the provincial government to provide land for the reconstruction of kiosks and small shops for the affected vendors. Bhatti stressed that this support is crucial to enable these individuals to sustain their livelihoods with dignity and thanked the chief minister for approving the development project.
Project Progress and Bidding Process
Sources have further revealed that the bidding process for awarding the construction contract has already been advertised, indicating that the project is moving forward swiftly. This step marks a significant milestone in the implementation phase, with construction expected to commence soon once contracts are finalized.
Related Enforcement Action in Kahuta
In a separate but related development, the Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority (PERA) has confiscated a large consignment of tax-evaded imported cigarettes in Kahuta, valued at millions of rupees. Assistant Commissioner and SDEO PERA Kahuta, Ms Shireen Gul, reported that the illegal sale of non-duty-paid cigarettes was detected during routine monitoring of local markets.
PERA teams acted promptly, conducting raids and recovering a substantial quantity of the contraband. The seized cigarettes were subsequently handed over to the Excise and Taxation Department for further legal action. Ms Gul emphasized that a zero-tolerance policy is being strictly enforced against the unlawful sale of cigarettes, aligning with broader regulatory efforts.
Additionally, in line with directives from the Chief Minister Punjab, PERA is ensuring strict quality and quantity checks at petrol filling stations across Kahuta tehsil, highlighting ongoing efforts to maintain standards and compliance in the region.
