Islamabad: Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has issued directives to the National Highway Authority (NHA) to expedite work on key national highways and motorways, emphasizing the need for transparent and efficient use of public funds in development projects.

According to Press Information Department, Minister Ahsan Iqbal reviewed the ongoing projects under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) and stressed that unjustified cost escalations, non-transparent financial claims, and inadequate project oversight will not be tolerated. He urged the NHA to address and remove bottlenecks hindering progress, particularly on the M-6, M-25, and Quetta-Zhob Road projects.

The minister highlighted the importance of effective project monitoring, focusing on actual physical progress and expenditure rather than merely on paperwork. A comprehensive report on the status, financial requirements, and implementation challenges of key projects is to be submitted to the Prime Minister. This report is expected to facilitate timely decisions and accelerate project completions.

During the review, it was revealed that the Shandur-Gilgit Road and Chitral-Booni Mastuj-Shandur Road projects have made significant progress, while the Karachi-Quetta-Chaman Road (N-25) and certain sections of the Indus Highway require acceleration. The minister also pointed to the importance of the Hyderabad-Sukkur Motorway (M-6) and the Lowari Tunnel in enhancing connectivity and trade, urging the removal of procedural bottlenecks to expedite procurement processes.

Ahsan Iqbal called for independent third-party validation to assess project costs and ensure impartial evaluation of financial claims, underscoring the necessity of transparent and accountable development to maximize the benefits of public investment. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining financial discipline and ensuring that development targets are met to bolster economic growth and regional connectivity.