By Fatima Mirza
Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan has outlined plans on October 24, 2026 to improve the country’s road network, strengthen the National Highway Authority (NHA), and support economic growth through better financial management.
Speaking to business leaders at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) on Saturday, Abdul Aleem Khan discussed several highway projects and reforms that are aimed at improving transport links, supporting trade, and using public funds more efficiently. The government also highlighted the importance of cooperation between public institutions and the business community.
One of the key points of the announcement was the financial restructuring of the National Highway Authority. According to the government’s statement, the authority aims to increase its revenue from Rs66 billion to Rs160 billion. Its administrative expenses will remain capped at Rs50 billion, with the aim of directing more available funds towards road construction and development.
The minister also said that 70 percent of NHA revenue would be reinvested in infrastructure projects in Balochistan. The N-25 highway has been identified as a major priority. Better road connections in the province will help improve access to markets, reduce transport difficulties, and support business activity.
The government has also identified 66 major infrastructure projects that require a combined investment of Rs3 trillion. These projects aim to improve connectivity between different regions and strengthen transport routes that are used by businesses, industries, and ordinary travellers.
Abdul Aleem Khan discussed progress on the Faisalabad Motorway expansion, which the official statement said was moving ahead without using government budget funds. The project reflects an effort to develop infrastructure while limiting direct pressure on public finances.
Another important project is the Sambrial-Kharian Motorway. According to the minister, the motorway will reduce the travel distance between Lahore and Rawalpindi by around 100 kilometres and save more than an hour of travel time. Shorter journeys could help transport companies reduce operating costs and allow passengers to travel more efficiently.
The minister also said that construction of the Lodhran Expressway would soon be completed using internal resources. The government expects these road projects to strengthen regional connections and improve access to important commercial areas.
He further announced that the work on the Sukkur-Karachi Motorway was scheduled to begin in November 2026. The project includes three approved sections and aims to provide high-speed road access to Karachi Port. The port serves as a major gateway for Pakistan’s international trade, making road links to the facility important for the movement of goods.
The announcement also covered plans to extend the Murree Expressway towards Azad Kashmir and explore future motorway extensions beyond Kaghan and Naran. These routes will improve access to tourist destinations and create additional transport links towards the Chinese border and neighbouring regions.
Alongside the infrastructure plans, the minister addressed concerns that were raised by business representatives. He directed officials from the National Highway Authority and Motorway Police to hold regular joint meetings with the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry. He also proposed appointing a focal person in the Ministry of Communications to improve communication between government officials and business leaders.
The minister assured the business community that the government would consider trade interests when pursuing road development projects. Regular consultation could help officials identify transport problems and address concerns that affect commercial activity.
LCCI (Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry) President Ali Hassam Asghar welcomed the minister’s participation and discussed matters concerning the business community. The meeting provided an opportunity for business representatives to raise operational issues directly with the communications ministry.
The minister also urged motorists to avoid speeding on motorways and national highways, highlighting the importance of road safety alongside infrastructure development.
Pakistan’s road network plays an important role in connecting agricultural areas, industrial centres, commercial markets, and ports. Better highways can help businesses move goods more efficiently, improve access to services, and support economic activity across provinces.
The plans announced on October 24 highlighted the government’s priorities for road development, revenue improvement, and engagement with the private sector. Their impact will depend on implementation, funding arrangements, construction progress, and the completion of projects within their planned schedules.
The announcement places transport infrastructure and financial management at the centre of the communications ministry’s development agenda, with a stated focus on improving connectivity and supporting trade across Pakistan.
