Islamabad Motorway Chowk Construction: NHMP Announces Traffic Diversions
Motorists travelling between Rawalpindi and the Islamabad Motorway have been advised to use alternative routes as construction work at Motorway Chowk near 26 Number Chungi continues to cause traffic congestion.
The National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP) issued the advisory on October 20, 2026, urging commuters to follow designated diversion routes, particularly during evening hours when traffic congestion has been reported to be more severe.
The plan covers vehicles travelling towards the motorway from Rawalpindi, Saddar and Mandi Mor, as well as motorists returning towards Rawalpindi, Pirwadhai and other nearby areas.
Motorway Chowk Traffic Diversion Plan
According to an NHMP spokesperson, motorists should use the following alternative routes to avoid the construction area.
| Direction of Travel | Recommended Route |
|---|---|
| Rawalpindi, Saddar and Mandi Mor towards the motorway | Turn right at Golra Mor, then use Islamabad Chowk, G-13 Roundabout and Srinagar Highway |
| Motorway towards Rawalpindi | Use Srinagar Highway, then proceed via Islamabad Chowk and G-13 |
| Motorway towards Mandi Mor and Pirwadhai | Follow Srinagar Highway, Islamabad Chowk and G-13 to continue towards the destination |
| Motorway towards Saddar | Use the recommended diversion via Srinagar Highway, Islamabad Chowk and G-13 |
Motorists should follow traffic police instructions at junctions and confirm the appropriate turn for their destination, as traffic conditions may change while construction continues.
Why Is Traffic Congestion Increasing Near 26 Number Chungi?
Motorway Chowk is an important connection point for commuters travelling between Islamabad, Rawalpindi and the motorway network.
Construction work in the area has disrupted normal traffic flow, creating delays for drivers passing through the junction. The situation can become more difficult during evening rush hours, when commuters return home and traffic volumes increase.
The diversion plan is intended to move vehicles away from the immediate construction area and distribute traffic across alternative roads.
However, diversions can also increase traffic pressure on surrounding junctions. Drivers should therefore allow extra time for their journeys, especially when travelling during peak periods.
Public Transport Operators Also Asked to Follow Diversions
The NHMP has urged owners and drivers of public service vehicles to follow the prescribed alternative routes.
Public transport operators have also been advised to avoid picking up or dropping off passengers at the construction site. Stopping near the work zone can obstruct moving traffic, create additional congestion and increase safety risks for passengers and other road users.
Commuters using buses, vans and other public transport services should check their routes and pickup points before travelling, as operators may adjust their journeys to comply with the traffic advisory.
What Motorists Should Do Before Travelling
Drivers heading towards the motorway or returning to Rawalpindi can reduce the risk of delays by planning their journeys in advance.
The following precautions may help:
- Use the designated diversion: Follow the route recommended by the NHMP rather than attempting to pass through the construction area.
- Allow extra travel time: Congestion may remain heavy during evening hours.
- Follow on-site instructions: Traffic police may direct vehicles differently depending on road conditions.
- Avoid unnecessary stops: Do not stop or park near the construction zone or obstruct traffic.
- Check before leaving: Confirm the latest traffic situation if your journey depends on passing through 26 Number Chungi.
The NHMP has advised commuters to contact its helpline if they require route guidance or emergency assistance.
Motorway Police Helpline for Traffic Guidance
Commuters who need assistance while travelling can contact the National Highways and Motorway Police at 130.
Drivers should use the helpline for relevant motorway and highway guidance and follow instructions from officers deployed along the diversion routes.
Because the reported advisory does not specify a final completion date for the construction work, motorists should not assume that the diversions will end on a particular day. The recommended routes may remain relevant until traffic arrangements are updated by the authorities.
What This Means for Islamabad and Rawalpindi Commuters
The Motorway Chowk diversion is particularly relevant to people who regularly travel between Rawalpindi and Islamabad through the 26 Number Chungi area.
Using Golra Mor, Islamabad Chowk, the G-13 Roundabout and Srinagar Highway as directed may help motorists avoid the immediate construction bottleneck. Nevertheless, alternative roads may also experience delays, especially during busy periods.
Commuters should plan ahead, allow additional time and follow official traffic instructions until the authorities announce changes to the diversion plan.
Editorial note: This report is based on the NHMP traffic advisory published on October 20, 2026. The duration of the construction work and any subsequent changes to the diversion plan should be confirmed through official updates.