This initiative has not only beautified the city but has also generated substantial revenue for the department.
Under the direction of Managing Director (MD) Ahmed Hasan Ranjha, the PHA introduced playgrounds, tea and juice stalls, and other leisure amenities in the areas that were once disregarded. The project has received widespread praise, including from Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, who have instructed PHA Lahore to replicate Rawalpindi’s model.
For years, local residents had called for action against gypsies and professional beggars who had occupied the lower sections of the flyover, engaging in illegal activities. These groups, along with their animals, had turned the area into a living space and even a makeshift washroom, creating a hazardous and unsanitary environment. MD Ranjha shared his thoughts on the transformation, saying, “We have permanently removed all encroachments and gypsies from the lower flyover sections. These settlements were a security threat. By auctioning off these spaces for positive use, we’ve turned them into sources of beauty and income. Just this month, we earned Rs. 12 million.”
The newly created facilities offer a safe and enjoyable environment for families, with affordable refreshments available. Ranjha emphasized that stall owners must adhere to pricing guidelines, warning that any infractions would result in strict penalties.
In addition to this transformation, the PHA has expanded its beautification efforts throughout the city, including parks and highways. The lower sections of the flyover now feature playgrounds, tennis courts, and tea stalls, making Murree Road—an essential route in the city—more attractive and functional. This beautification initiative is part of a broader effort to address waste management and improve Rawalpindi’s overall environment.
Local leaders and provincial authorities have applauded the PHA’s work, recognizing its positive effect on the city’s appearance and residents’ quality of life. Meanwhile, Rawalpindi residents have asked the PHA to consider lowering the fees for swings and other recreational facilities in public parks to make them more affordable for everyone.
This transformation underscores the impact of thoughtful urban planning and community-focused projects, setting a precedent for other cities in Pakistan. As the PHA continues to enhance Rawalpindi, residents are hopeful for a cleaner, greener, and more family-friendly environment.
