By The Punjab government has officially initiated the large-scale rehabilitation of the 67.25-kilometer-long Sahiwal–Arifwala–Bahawalnagar Road under the Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif Roads Restoration Program. The announcement was confirmed through the Chief Minister of Punjab’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, signaling a significant infrastructure upgrade for southern Punjab.
Strengthening Regional Connectivity
The Sahiwal–Arifwala–Bahawalnagar Road serves as a vital arterial route linking southern border districts with two of Pakistan’s most important transport corridors: the National Highway N-5 and Motorway M-3.
- N-5 is Pakistan’s busiest and longest highway, connecting major economic hubs from Karachi to Peshawar.
- M-3 Motorway facilitates high-speed travel between Lahore and Multan, playing a key role in freight and passenger movement.
By modernizing this critical stretch, the Punjab government aims to significantly reduce travel time, improve road safety, and enhance transport efficiency for commuters and commercial vehicles alike.
Economic Boost for Southern Punjab
Beyond improved mobility, the project is expected to serve as a powerful economic catalyst. The corridor runs through key agricultural regions known for the production of:
- Wheat
- Cotton
- Sugarcane
- Livestock
Upgraded infrastructure will likely lower transportation costs, reduce post-harvest losses, and improve supply chain reliability. Farmers and traders stand to benefit directly from faster and more cost-effective access to central markets and export routes.
Additionally, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and industrial units in Sahiwal, Arifwala, and Bahawalnagar may experience accelerated growth due to smoother logistics and improved connectivity with national trade networks.
Social Impact and Public Benefit
The rehabilitation project is projected to benefit more than 8.5 million residents across Sahiwal, Arifwala, Bahawalnagar, and surrounding districts. Improved road conditions will enhance:
- Daily commuting convenience
- Access to educational institutions
- Healthcare and emergency response services
- Inter-city mobility
For transport operators and motorists in southern Punjab, the initiative signals long-term development momentum and improved operational efficiency.
Part of a Broader Infrastructure Vision
The Sahiwal–Arifwala–Bahawalnagar Road upgrade aligns with the broader vision of the Punjab government to modernize road networks across the province. By prioritizing key regional corridors, the administration aims to drive inclusive economic growth and reduce infrastructure gaps between central and southern Punjab.
While the official completion timeline has yet to be announced, the launch of this rehabilitation work marks a strategic step toward strengthening southern Punjab’s transport and economic landscape.
