ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan on Wednesday presided over a high-level review meeting on major National Highway Authority projects and directed accelerated work on key road infrastructure, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The session was informed that multiple strategic highways have been completed and are ready for formal inauguration by the Prime Minister.
During the briefing, NHA officials highlighted that the Kohat-Jhand-Pindi Gheb Road and the Old Bannu Road highways have been completed, enhancing connectivity and economic activity in the region. These routes are expected to significantly improve traffic flow and regional access once officially opened.
Officials also outlined timelines for ongoing projects, including the Indus Highway (N-55) Kohat Section and the Peshawar Northern Bypass, both of which are on track for completion by June 2026. Further updates confirmed that sections of the N-140 Highway linking Chitral, Shandur and Gilgit are expected to be finished by December 2026, creating vital links across northern Pakistan’s mountainous terrain.
Abdul Aleem Khan instructed NHA authorities to ensure that payments for road construction and maintenance are made only after site inspections by the NHA Chairman, reinforcing transparency and accountability in project implementation. He also emphasised the importance of strict action against unnecessary payments and production of a better strategy for foreign funded projects to make sure financial resources are utilised efficiently.
The minister stressed that delays in project completion drive up costs and affect quality, asserting that no compromise will be made on construction standards. He has called on the NHA to expedite work on the Indus Highway and to conduct thorough reviews of cash flow needs for ongoing projects.
Abdul Aleem Khan also decided to undertake a field visit to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to personally monitor progress on key roads, while directing enhanced cooperation between NHA and provincial authorities to resolve outstanding issues and deliver timely results for the public.
