Road-Level Planning: A Comparative Perspective

In most developed countries, road levels are strategically planned during the initial stages of development. This critical aspect of urban planning ensures that roads are properly aligned with the surrounding land, including residential and commercial areas, as well as drainage systems. A standardized approach to road levels helps prevent a range of issues, such as drainage problems, flooding, and road damage, which often arise when there is a mismatch between road heights and nearby structures. Poorly planned elevated roads can cause wastewater to flood into neighborhoods, while roads built too low suffer rapid deterioration due to waterlogging.

Historical Context: Road Level Management in Pre-Partition Subcontinent

Before the partition of the Indian subcontinent in 1947, road-level planning received significant attention. Roads were designed in harmony with surrounding structures and drainage systems, ensuring a balanced and sustainable infrastructure. Communities adhered to the proposed road levels, which minimized conflicts between roads, drainage, and nearby buildings.

However, after partition, road-level planning deteriorated in Pakistan, particularly in Punjab. Roads were constructed without considering their alignment with the surrounding environment. This neglect disrupted the balance between road levels, drainage systems, and buildings, leading to long-term infrastructure and societal challenges.

Effects of Overlooking Road Levels in Pakistan

 The lack of proper road-level planning in post-partition Pakistan has led to numerous issues:

Roads built without adhering to proper elevation standards began to deteriorate quickly. Improper drainage systems and misaligned roads caused flooding, leading to the rapid destruction of infrastructure. Elevated roads blocked the natural flow of wastewater, resulting in flooding in nearby neighborhoods. Low-lying roads often remained waterlogged for extended periods, exacerbating road damage. To adjust to elevated roads, residents raised the ground level around their homes and businesses using makeshift materials. Once these materials dried, they created dust, contributing to air pollution and respiratory health problems. Contractors often prioritized profit over quality, leading to substandard construction practices. Instead of rebuilding damaged roads, contractors added layers on top of the existing surface, creating shortcuts that saved time and money but caused long-term issues. Over time, multiple layers sometimes as many as 6–7 were added to existing roads. This practice distorted the natural terrain, disrupting urban and rural landscapes.

A Persistent Issue Since 1947

These problems have persisted in Pakistan since independence. Despite numerous complaints from affected communities, authorities have largely ignored the issue. In response, homeowners have been forced to elevate their properties to match the rising road levels, perpetuating the cycle of poor planning and its adverse effects on infrastructure, the environment, and public health.

Conclusion

The continued neglect of road-level planning in Pakistan has caused significant damage to infrastructure, communities, and the environment. Learning from the practices of developed nations, Pakistan must adopt systematic road-level planning to address corruption, bad construction practices, and poor urban planning. Breaking this cycle, which has persisted since 1947, is essential for sustainable development and infrastructure improvement.