| Islamabad: Efforts to enhance Lahore’s infrastructure and connectivity have gained momentum as updates on land acquisition from Lahore Ring Road to Raiwind-Kasur Road were presented to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The project is expected to benefit multiple districts and improve regional connectivity.
Progress on Lahore-Sahiwal-Bahawalnagar Motorway
During the meeting, the prime minister was briefed on the progress of the first phase of the Lahore-Sahiwal-Bahawalnagar Motorway. Officials informed him that land acquisition from Lahore Ring Road to Raiwind-Kasur Road is underway. This phase is set to enhance accessibility and provide significant economic opportunities for districts in South East Punjab.
Read: KP approves Peshawar-DI Khan Motorway project
Safety Fence Repairs on Highways and Motorways
The prime minister directed the National Highways Authority (NHA) to complete the repair of all damaged safety fences on national highways and motorways within a month. The move aims to ensure traveler safety and prevent accidents caused by compromised infrastructure.
The meeting revealed that out of 4,027 kilometers of protective fencing installed across motorways, 859 kilometers have been stolen or damaged. This has led to 36 accidents and 178 registered FIRs over the last four years. To address this, legislation is being drafted to declare motorways as strategic assets, enabling stricter penalties for theft and vandalism.
Key Development Projects Prioritized
The prime minister emphasized the importance of fast-tracking several critical projects and directed the formation of a steering committee to monitor progress. These projects include:
Sukkur-Hyderabad Motorway
Remaining sections of Ratodero-Gwadar Motorway
Hyderabad-Karachi Motorway
Karachi-Quetta-Chaman National Highway
Reconstruction of segments of the Karakoram Highway
These initiatives aim to boost national connectivity and support economic development.
Enhanced Regional Connectivity
The Lahore-Sahiwal-Bahawalnagar Motorway is expected to serve as a critical link for South East Punjab, connecting it to major urban centers and reducing travel times. Officials assured the prime minister that the land acquisition process for the first phase is progressing steadily.
Read: All future motorways will feature at least 6 lanes: Aleem Khan
Improved Highway Policing and Patrolling
To enhance safety on the roads, the prime minister instructed authorities to improve policing and patrolling on national highways and motorways.
The government’s focus on infrastructure expansion, traveler safety, and strict measures against theft highlights its commitment to modernizing Pakistan’s road networks and supporting sustainable development. |
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