NHA to Accelerate Major Highway Projects with Rs. 150 Billion Investment

In a decisive push for better connectivity and balanced regional development, Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan has directed the National Highway Authority (NHA) to expedite work on five major highway projects across Pakistan.

The directive was issued during a high-level review meeting on national infrastructure, where the minister emphasized the importance of timely execution to boost economic growth and regional integration. Key projects under the spotlight include the M-6 Motorway, the M-10, and the crucial Naran-Kaghan route — all vital links for trade, tourism, and local communities.

To fuel this ambitious plan, the NHA will invest a substantial Rs. 150 billion during the current fiscal year from its own resources. A significant chunk — Rs. 100 billion — has been earmarked for the long-awaited Karachi-Quetta-Chaman (N-25) highway in Balochistan, a strategic route that is expected to see groundbreaking work begin soon.

Federal Minister Aleem Khan underscored the government’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure by directing that all future motorway projects be designed with at least six lanes. This standard aims to future-proof the highways, ensuring they can handle growing traffic volumes and provide smoother, safer journeys for commuters and cargo alike.

To attract private sector participation, the minister reiterated that highway expansion will continue under the public-private partnership (PPP) model. This approach is expected to bring in additional investment and expertise, accelerating project delivery and improving long-term maintenance.

Highlighting the NHA’s rising revenue, Aleem Khan called it a clear signal for the authority to deliver results on the ground. The government expects priority highway projects to reach 90% completion within this year, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif set to inaugurate completed sections once major milestones are achieved.

In a show of commitment to balanced development, all pending road project proposals for Gilgit-Baltistan were approved during the meeting. The minister also stressed that project planning must consider each region’s unique needs to ensure fair development across all provinces. Addressing local concerns, Aleem Khan clarified that the Lahore-Kasur road project has no connection to Raiwind.

With billions allocated and a clear roadmap, Pakistan’s highway network is poised for a significant upgrade that will boost economic activity, connect remote areas, and improve safety and efficiency for millions of travelers.

Afsheen Gohar

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