Lahore: Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan chaired a high-level meeting of the National Highway Authority (NHA) Punjab Region to evaluate ongoing and upcoming infrastructure initiatives. The meeting resulted in several key resolutions aimed at enhancing road standards. Senior officials, including the Federal Secretary for Communications and the NHA Chairman, briefed the Minister on strategic infrastructure projects.

According to Press Information Department, Abdul Aleem Khan articulated the government’s intention to upgrade the GT Road to meet motorway standards, emphasizing the need to provide commuters with improved facilities due to the road’s revenue significance. He directed the NHA to introduce modern traffic management measures to address the heavy traffic on national highways.

The meeting focused on the redesign of the N-5 Highway from Ring Road to Phoolnagar, with the Minister ordering phased improvements and further upgrades stretching to Okara and Sahiwal. He stressed the importance of international-standard U-turns to alleviate traffic congestion.

To enhance safety, especially for vulnerable groups, the Minister instructed the construction of overhead pedestrian bridges and the installation of barriers to deter dangerous road crossings. He emphasized cost-effective land acquisition by utilizing government land and minimizing private land purchases.

The Minister also proposed aesthetic improvements for the GT Road, including green areas and modern lighting installations. Discussions included the development of new toll plazas, service areas, and U-turns. A private sector construction group offered recommendations for road improvements, which were well-received by the Minister.