Shaheen Chowk Underpass Disruption Forces Islamabad Universities to Postpone Exams

Examinations at major Islamabad universities have been postponed after the closure of Shaheen Chowk due to ongoing underpass construction, causing widespread inconvenience for students just days before scheduled papers.

Students of Bahria University and Air University were informed via SMS that exams scheduled for December 27 and 28 have been deferred. University administrations cited restricted access around Shaheen Chowk as the main reason, assuring students that revised dates will be shared later through heads of departments.

Despite direct notifications to students, the absence of a formal public announcement has added to confusion. Many students expressed frustration, saying the sudden decision disrupted preparation plans and may affect semester timelines and breaks.

“We prepared according to the given schedule, and now everything is uncertain,” a student shared.

The disruption is linked to the Shaheen Chowk underpass project, located at the busy junction of 9th Avenue and Khyaban-i-Iqbal. The project has caused prolonged traffic diversions, making access to nearby educational institutions difficult.

Earlier this week, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi inspected the site and instructed the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to complete the remaining work without further delay. According to officials, most structural work has been completed, while road carpeting and finishing touches are still underway.

Authorities expect the underpass to be inaugurated next week. Once operational, it is aimed at easing chronic traffic congestion in one of Islamabad’s busiest corridors. Until then, students and institutions remain hopeful that normal academic schedules can resume soon.