Rawalpindi Lawyers Threaten Action Over Kacheri Chowk Project Delays
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A dispute over infrastructure improvements in Rawalpindi is escalating, with the District Bar Association warning it will forcibly reopen closed routes associated with the Kacheri Chowk widening and remodelling project on November 10 if unresolved within two days. The legal community alleges inadequate planning by the administration is causing notable disruption.
The association has been actively monitoring the project since its inception and maintains it has cooperated with both district authorities and other stakeholders. The current impasse centers on concerns regarding alternative transportation and parking solutions for legal professionals, judicial staff, and those seeking legal recourse.
Demolition and Reconstruction Underway
According to reports, the project has already involved the demolition of the old Hamza Block, a local mosque, and adjacent chambers. These demolitions occurred with the consent of the bar association, following a marking process conducted in the presence of the Additional Deputy Commissioner (Revenue) and Assistant Commissioner (Cantonment). Notably, the bar is spearheading the reconstruction of the affected mosque through a self-help basis initiative, while affected lawyers have begun rebuilding their private chambers.
Administration Accusations and Demands
Despite initial cooperation,the District Bar Association now accuses the administration of failing to adequately address the logistical challenges created by the construction. “The failure to plan alternate routes and parking facilities is causing immense trouble to lawyers, judicial staff, and litigants,” a spokesperson for the association stated.
The association is demanding several immediate actions from the authorities,including:
- Immediate allotment of substitute land.
- Construction of the promised parking plaza.
- Full compensation for property destroyed during the demolition phase.
The bar leadership has issued a stern warning, stating that any attempt at coercive action by the administration will be met with resistance, and authorities will be held accountable for any resulting confrontations.
Traffic Diversions Implemented
In anticipation of continued disruption,the City Traffic Police have announced temporary traffic diversions.Commuters traveling from Rawat via Jhelum Road towards Old Airport are advised to utilize Bahria Phase 1 and High Court Road. Those heading from Jhelum Road towards Peshawar Road and New Airport should take the Morgah Turn and other designated alternate routes.
The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected as the November 10 deadline approaches. The potential for direct action by the legal community underscores the growing frustration with the pace and planning of the Kacheri Chowk project.
Why, Who, What, and how it Ended (as of this report):
why: The dispute arose from the Rawalpindi District bar association’s frustration with the administration’s handling of the Kacheri Chowk widening and remodelling project. Specifically, they allege inadequate planning for alternative transportation and parking, causing hardship for legal professionals, staff, and litigants.
Who: The key players are the Rawalpindi District Bar Association, the Rawalpindi administration (including the additional Deputy Commissioner and Assistant Commissioner), the City Traffic Police, and commuters affected by the project.
What: The Bar Association is demanding immediate action from the administration: allotment of substitute land, construction of a parking plaza, and full compensation for property destroyed during demolition. They have threatened to forcibly reopen closed routes on November 10 if their demands aren’t met. The administration has implemented traffic diversions in anticipation of disruption.
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