PESHAWAR — In a major step toward decongesting city roads, Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur on Monday launched the Peshawar Traffic Reform Plan, a sweeping initiative that combines urban infrastructure development with strict regulatory enforcement to address the city’s worsening traffic crisis.
Chairing a high-level meeting at the Chief Minister’s House, Gandapur approved an integrated set of reforms under the Peshawar Traffic Reform Plan, including the expansion of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor to Nasir Bagh, construction of three new underpasses on University Road, enforcement of zoning for handcarts, and a ban on unregistered public service vehicles on BRT routes.
“Peshawar is not just our capital but the face of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” Gandapur said. “We must restore its status with a traffic system that is safe, smart, and sustainable. The Peshawar Traffic Reform Plan has been crafted to achieve exactly that.”
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Infrastructure at the heart of the plan
The Chief Minister emphasized that key infrastructure projects will be fast-tracked. The missing link of Ring Road from Nasir Bagh will be completed by the end of this month, while work is already underway on the stretch from Nasir Bagh to Takhte Baig. The government will also construct three new underpasses on University Road and expand the BRT corridor to improve public transportation flow.
Zebra crossings, overhead pedestrian bridges outside schools and marketplaces, and solar-powered streetlights will be installed on priority roads in the first phase. A feasibility study and cost estimate for these projects have already been ordered, with the government committing full financial support.
Regulatory Crackdown Begins
As part of the reform, Gandapur has directed a zero-tolerance policy toward illegal parking stands and unauthorized encroachments on service and link roads. “Parking regulations must be enforced strictly. If any plaza’s map includes parking, it must be implemented without exception,” he said. He ordered a citywide review of building maps and warned of legal action against violations.
To address the rising number of rickshaws, the cabinet approved a color-coded scheme for easier regulation and identification. The registration process for rickshaws and electric bikes will be presented in the next cabinet meeting. The Chief Minister also instructed authorities to identify designated parking spots along University Road and streamline pushcarts (handcarts) by allocating proper vending spaces without affecting traffic flow.
“Handcarts are a lifeline for many poor families,” he noted. “We will not remove them, but we must organize them for the city’s overall benefit.”
Reinforcements And Resources
Gandapur approved immediate recruitment on vacant posts in traffic-related departments and greenlit the procurement of essential machinery and tools. A special traffic monitoring mechanism will be introduced to ensure round-the-clock supervision and evaluation of reforms.
He also ordered a reassessment of the existing traffic fine system, proposing that fines be adjusted based on the vehicle’s market value to discourage repeat offenses and illegal parking practices.
Market Relocation And New Zones
The Chief Minister approved the relocation of the main vegetable market from Bacha Khan Chowk to Phandu Road and directed steps for increasing the number of wholesale markets through public-private partnerships.
He also granted approval for the rationalization of U-turns across the city and demanded a practical plan for traffic lights and signal installations — to be designed in consultation with subject experts.
Security And Social Welfare
Addressing growing concerns over safety and crime, Gandapur ordered police to launch an immediate crackdown on drug dealers and urged elected representatives to assist law enforcement. “Drug peddlers are the enemies of our future generations. We must act together,” he declared.
“This reform plan is not just about traffic,” said Gandapur. “It’s about giving Peshawar a fresh start, a new identity — one that reflects discipline, efficiency, and care for every citizen.”
The government plans to include a special development package for Peshawar in the next Annual Development Programme, ensuring continued investment in the city’s long-term transformation.
With the Peshawar Traffic Reform Plan officially underway, city residents are expected to witness major changes in the coming weeks as the administration rolls out upgrades, enforcement measures, and public services aimed at fixing a system long plagued by neglect.
