NHA Sets 2028 as New Completion Target for Sukkur-Hyderabad Motorway

The National Highway Authority (NHA) has officially announced that the Sukkur-Hyderabad Motorway—a key infrastructure project in Sindh—will now be completed by 2028. The revised timeline was shared during a briefing to the Economic Affairs Committee of the National Assembly, where NHA officials provided updates on the project’s progress, financing, and upcoming construction schedule.

Progress and Financing Updates

According to NHA officials, a general procurement notice has already been issued, signaling the start of the next phase of project implementation. Negotiations are ongoing with major international financiers, including the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) and the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), to secure joint funding for the motorway’s construction.

Officials clarified that construction work will begin once contract awards and financing agreements are finalized, marking a significant milestone in one of Sindh’s most anticipated infrastructure projects.

A Strategic Corridor for Sindh’s Connectivity

Stretching approximately 306 kilometers, the Sukkur-Hyderabad Motorway is part of the M-6 route, which links Karachi to Peshawar via the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The project aims to:

• Improve connectivity between southern and northern Sindh,
• Reduce travel time between Sukkur and Hyderabad, and
• Boost economic activity by facilitating trade and transport efficiency across the province.

Once completed, the motorway will also ease the heavy traffic burden on the existing National Highway (N-5), offering a safer and faster alternative route for both freight and passenger vehicles.

Concerns Over Loan Terms

During the committee session, lawmakers raised concerns about the loan agreement with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), which is helping fund part of the project. Members noted that the interest rate has exceeded 6 percent and expressed reservations about the 20-year repayment schedule and five-year grace period.

In response, NHA representatives explained that the loan terms were set according to international financing standards and were necessary to maintain project viability.

Committee Oversight and Next Steps

The Economic Affairs Committee has requested regular progress reports from the NHA to ensure transparency and timely completion. Officials reaffirmed their commitment to meeting the 2028 deadline and emphasized that securing financing remains the top priority before breaking ground.

The Sukkur-Hyderabad Motorway, once completed, is expected to be a game-changer for Sindh’s transport infrastructure, strengthening regional connectivity and contributing significantly to Pakistan’s economic growth.

Disclaimer:
Project timelines and financing details are based on official statements from the NHA and may change due to administrative or funding-related factors. For verified updates, refer to official National Highway Authority announcements.

Afsheen Gohar

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