The Senate Standing Committee on Communications recently convened to assess the progress and future plans for Pakistan’s key infrastructure projects, focusing notably on the M6 and M9 motorways.

M6 Motorway Developments:

  • Sectional Division: An international consultant has recommended dividing the M6 motorway into five sections to enhance management efficiency.​
  • Investment Interest: The Islamic Development Bank (IDB) plans to visit Pakistan next month and has shown interest in investing in three sections of the M6 motorway.​
  • Land Acquisition Concerns: The National Highway Authority (NHA) chairman reported misappropriation of funds allocated for land procurement by certain deputy commissioners. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) is investigating, with Rs3.2 million recovered out of the embezzled Rs5.7 million.​

M9 Motorway Updates:

  • Azerbaijani Collaboration: Following Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Azerbaijan, alternative routes for the M9 motorway were presented to Azerbaijani companies. The feasibility study for the M9 alternative route was shared with Azerbaijan on March 19.​
  • Maintenance Queries: Senator Saifullah Abro inquired about the maintenance and repair responsibilities for the M9 motorway, highlighting the need for clarity in operational accountability.​

Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) Insights:

  • Project Portfolio: The Ministry of Communications is managing 105 projects for the current financial year, comprising 15 new initiatives and 90 ongoing projects, with a total cost exceeding Rs240 billion.​
  • Funding Status: The Ministry of Finance has released Rs56 billion for the second quarter, with a similar amount anticipated for the remaining quarters.​
  • Specific Project Concerns: Senator Maulana Abdul Wasi emphasized the need to expedite work on the DI Khan-Kuchlak-Zhob Highway, underscoring its strategic importance.​

These discussions reflect the government’s commitment to advancing national infrastructure while addressing financial and managerial challenges.