Uplift projects: Ahsan asks NHA to remove bottlenecks

Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has instructed the National Highway Authority to clear delays in its Public Sector Development Programme projects, speed up construction and strengthen scrutiny of public spending, Business Recorder reported. He said cost increases, contractor claims and construction variations should receive technical, contractual and financial checks, alongside independent validation of project costs and quality.

Progress varies across the projects reviewed: the Shandur, Gilgit Road is 67.33 per cent complete, while the Karachi, Quetta, Chaman Road has reached 19.25 per cent. The 306-kilometre Hyderabad, Sukkur Motorway and Lowari Tunnel electrical and mechanical works remain at procurement stage; the minister also sought actionable proposals within 15 days on issues and claims concerning a bypass project. He called for clearer timelines, stronger monitoring and resolution of financial, administrative and land-related obstacles.