ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on Economic Affairs has directed the National Highway Authority (NHA) to commence work on the N-45 Chakdara-Chitral Road (Kalkatak-Chitral Section) by December 1, 2026. The directive comes amidst a review of ongoing foreign-funded projects in the power and communication sectors, where the committee expressed concerns over delays and irregularities.

According to Senate of Pakistan, the committee, chaired by Senator Saifullah Abro at Parliament House, focused on the 765kV Dasu-Islamabad Transmission Line Project and the N-45 road project. Officials briefed the committee on significant delays in the transmission line project, originally scheduled for completion by June 2028, and the presence of irregularities. The committee emphasized the need for strict action against those responsible, as public resources are heavily invested.

The National Grid Company (NGC) was urged to ensure timely completion of technical and contractual processes, with revised estimates shared with contractors for payment processing. Additionally, the Forest Department of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa agreed to issue necessary NOCs for tower foundations and access roads, facilitating project progress.

In the communication sector, the committee reviewed the NHA’s progress on the N-45 Chakdara-Timergara section, expressing concern over the delay in PC-I approval. The Economic Affairs Division acknowledged the unjustified delay, highlighting its impact on project implementation and financial implications. The committee directed authorities to resolve issues promptly, emphasizing the efficient use of foreign-funded loans.

The committee also addressed procurement issues in the N-45 (Kalkatak-Chitral) section, directing the NHA to revise and resubmit their presentation. With assurances from NHA officials to mobilize contractors within three months, the committee decided to dispose of the matter, expecting work to commence by December 2026.

The committee underscored the importance of transparency, accountability, and timely execution in all development projects to serve the public interest effectively.