ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on Communications revealed that the National Highways Authority (NHA) has not received any funds from the Rs. 10 billion packages allocated for Balochistan by the Prime Minister.
As per the details, the committee discussed the allocation and disbursement of funds for ongoing road projects, prioritization criteria, and the progress of key infrastructure initiatives.
During the meeting, the committee adopted the recommendations made by Senator Mushtaq Ahmed Khan regarding the excessive use of arable land for the construction of the Swat Motorway.
Furthermore, the NHA officials provided province-wise details of ongoing and new road projects, highlighting those projects nearing completion (80-90% progress) are given top priority.
The allocation of projects and funds aligns with the government’s policy. As of the third quarter, a total of Rs 24 billion has been released for these projects.
In addition, the committee also received a briefing on the construction of Pinjra Bridge Bolan, which was completely washed away during the 2022 floods.
The NHA has constructed a diversion and initiated the process of reconstruction with the support of the Asian Development Bank.
The project is being expedited on an emergency basis, and financial bids will be opened on May 15, 2023.
Regarding the Balochistan package, Senator Ghafoor Haideri inquired whether the NHA has received any funds from the allocated Rs. 10 billion.
Besides, the NHA officials confirmed that they have not received any money from the package.
However, plans are in place to build 32 bridges across the country, including 18 in Balochistan, with the assistance of an Asian Development Bank loan.
Source: Business Recorder
