Islamabad: In a recent meeting chaired by Abdul Aleem Khan, the Federal Minister for Communications, the construction of the Sukkur to Hyderabad Motorway M-6, extending to Karachi, has been designated a top priority. An inquiry committee was also established to address concerns regarding protective fences around motorways, with a report expected within 10 days.

According to a statement by Press Information Department, the minister highlighted a significant rise in the National Highway Authority’s (NHA) revenue, from Rs. 60 billion to Rs. 110 billion in just six months. The funds, now amounting to an additional Rs. 50 billion, are earmarked for projects expected to generate further revenue. The minister aims to boost NHA’s revenue to Rs. 400 billion over the next five years and promised a bonus equivalent to one month’s salary for all NHA employees if targets are met by June.

In the same meeting, it was revealed that the Sialkot-Khariyan-Rawalpindi Motorway will be expanded from four to six lanes, with work anticipated to begin soon. The minister instructed the Federal Secretary for Communications to ensure motorway repairs are completed by February and to conduct on-site inspections.

A committee was also formed to explore commercial possibilities for vacant lands owned by the NHA, with an emphasis on generating additional revenue. The Federal Minister emphasized the importance of merit-based operations and a uniform policy across the organization.

During the briefing, the Federal Secretary for Communications and the Chairman of NHA reported on ongoing projects aimed at developing Pakistan’s national road network. The completion of these projects will be marked by inaugurations led by the Prime Minister, with the minister conducting inspections to ensure quality standards are met.