Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan chaired a high-level meeting of the National Highway Authority to review progress on various ongoing projects. During the meeting, Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan reviewed the technical plans for expanding the existing two-lane, 53-kilometre section of the Pindi Bhattian–Faisalabad Motorway M-4 into a three-lane carriageway. Issuing special directives, he stated that keeping in view public convenience, the project must be completed within one month from the commencement date. He further clarified that during the construction period, smooth traffic flow must be maintained by diverting northbound traffic to the southbound side. Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan also directed the immediate upgradation of the proposed service area located between Faisalabad and Pindi Bhattian.
Reviewing NHA affairs, Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan issued directives for the pre-qualification of expert Horticulturists, Transaction Advisors and Traffic Engineers to ensure technical and financial accountability. He also ordered the establishment of a dedicated Monitoring Cell responsible for closely examining cost estimates and evaluating projects. Delivering a strong message to all stakeholders, Federal Minister stated that contractors would face penalties for any delays in project completion instead of being rewarded through cost escalation. He emphasized that all deadlines must be strictly adhered to in order to ensure the timely delivery of infrastructure projects to the public.
Talking urban safety and beautification, Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan directed that the road from Islamabad International Airport to Tarnol Interchange be fully illuminated to improve security in the area. He specifically instructed that plantation along the Airport Road should include water-efficient trees requiring minimal irrigation. Furthermore, regarding the proposal to construct a “Mark-e-Haque” memorial at the strategic junction where M-1, M-2, and Airport Road converge, he directed that design proposals featuring greenery and fountains be invited.
The meeting, chaired by Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan also discussed the construction of the road from Ring Road to Manga Mandi and the installation of new toll plazas. The Federal Minister sought a detailed briefing in the next meeting regarding the proposed complex on the 83.8-kilometre-long Guru Nanak Expressway near Nankana Sahib and Kartarpur. The Federal Secretary for Communications and Chairman NHA briefed the Federal Minister on departmental affairs while officers from various divisions participated through video link.
