Rs 1.73b West Bank bypass on cards in Azad Kashmir   
'Pakistan Times' Kashmir Desk

MUZAFFARABAD (AJK): Earthquake Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Authority (Erra) will construct ‘West Bank Bypass’ on western banks of Neelum and Jehlum rivers in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

“The cost of five kilometres bypass road including four intersections and three bridges is estimated Rs 1.73 billion and it has been designed by Japanese civil engineering experts,” Erra sources on Tuesday.

It also comprises Nalochi Bridge with one central pillar and iron rods-the first of this type in Pakistan, sources claimed, adding that the 246 metres long bridge would cost Rs 14.43 million.

As per project cost specifications, Japan’s institution JPI would donate Rs 1.5 billion for construction of the road, while Pakistan government would provide Rs 20.6 million for acquisition of land and remaining financial resources would be allocated from Erra’s budget.

After completion of the project, Kohala-Muzaffarabad, Balakot-Muzaffarabad and Neelum Valley roads would be linked with the Western Bypass to ensure smooth flow of traffic on these roads.

Meanwhile, bus stops and goods transport stations will also be shifted outside the Muzaffarabad to reduce the traffic load in the city.

The Erra documents elaborate that National Highway Authority would supervise execution of the project, while construction contract is scheduled to be awarded through international bidding.●