ISLAMABAD: The alleged use of harsh and inappropriate language by Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan has created unease among senior officials of the National Highway Authority (NHA), according to multiple sources who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Officials said that the the property tycoon turned minister’s strict tone in meetings has increasingly become a matter of concern, with some describing his conduct as “demeaning” and “unwarranted” during official interactions.
In a recent high-level meeting, sources claimed that the minister expressed anger over the release of a payment worth Rs8 billion despite his directions to halt it. According to officials familiar with the matter, the payment in question had been processed following due approval by NHA Chairman Captain (Retired) Asadullah Khan.
Sources further alleged that while maintenance work on national highways and motorways across the country has largely been halted, significant funds are being diverted towards select projects. They claimed that the NHA has been directed to spend substantial amounts on a limited road stretch located in front of a private housing scheme linked to the minister’s interests.
Additionally, officials raised concerns over expenditures on the Islamabad–Murree Expressway, alleging that billions of rupees have been utilised without a competitive procurement process or proper audit oversight.
The Ministry of Communications and the NHA did not respond to requests for comment till the filing of this report.
