The Rawalpindi Ring Road is expected to be formally opened on 28 October 2026, with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz due to inaugurate it, according to a ProPakistani report published on 22 October. After years of delays, the main 38.3 km stretch is finished and a toll system is being installed ahead of the opening.
Here is what the reports say, in plain terms, and what it is likely to mean for people who live, work or own property along the route.
Where does the Ring Road go?
The road starts at the Banth Interchange on GT Road, north-east of the city, and loops around the south of Rawalpindi. Reports list four interchanges on the main route:
- Banth on GT Road
- Chak Beli Khan
- Adiala
- Chakri
At the western end it connects to the M-2 motorway at Thalian. For now that link is without a full interchange; a larger Thalian interchange is planned as a later phase and is included in the revised project cost of about Rs50.4 billion.
Will there be a toll?
Yes. The reports say a toll booth system is being installed before the opening and will be run by the Punjab Ring Road Authority. Toll rates had not been published at the time of writing. Expect them to be announced close to the inauguration.
What changes for daily traffic?
The main effect is that heavy and through traffic between GT Road and the motorway no longer has to pass through the city. In practice that should mean:
- Less pressure on Rawat, the Islamabad Expressway and the Saddar side of town from trucks heading to the motorway.
- Faster access to the motorway from Adiala Road and Chakri Road, which until now meant driving into the city first.
- Shorter trips for goods coming from GT Road to warehouses and markets on the south side.
Who benefits most?
- Residents of Adiala Road, Chakri Road and Chak Beli Khan get a proper fast route to GT Road and the motorway for the first time.
- Housing societies along the corridor become far easier to reach. Expect more interest in plots and houses in that belt.
- Businesses moving goods between Islamabad, Rawalpindi and Lahore or the north will save time on every run.
Things to keep in mind
- The opening date can slip. Treat 28 October as expected, not confirmed, until the ceremony happens.
- Toll rates, exit numbering and signage will take a few weeks to settle in.
- New roads bring construction, moves and new shops. If you are setting up a home, office or warehouse along the route, plan the move and the fit-out early.
Frequently asked questions
When does the Rawalpindi Ring Road open?
Reports on 22 October 2026 say it is expected to be inaugurated on 28 October 2026 by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. The date has not been formally confirmed.
How long is the Rawalpindi Ring Road?
The main route is about 38.3 km, running from the Banth Interchange on GT Road to Thalian near the M-2 motorway, with interchanges at Chak Beli Khan, Adiala and Chakri.
Is the Ring Road tolled?
Yes. A toll system is being installed before the opening and will be operated by the Punjab Ring Road Authority. Rates had not been announced at the time of writing.
Does the Ring Road connect to the motorway?
It links to the M-2 at Thalian. For now the link is without a full interchange; a larger Thalian interchange is planned as a later phase.
Sources: ProPakistani, 22 October 2026, and PakWheels, October 2026, reports on the Ring Road inauguration and tolling plans. Figures are as reported and may change.
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