A recent Senate committee meeting took an unexpected turn when members found out that a new motorway planned between Lahore and Raiwind would cover only 16 kilometers.
This surprising detail came up during a Planning and Development meeting chaired by Senator Quratulain Marri. Officials explained that this short stretch of motorway is part of the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP).
The news did not sit well with Senator Marri, who questioned why such a short project was being given priority when so many other regions still lack basic infrastructure. She pointed out that there are 55 projects in the PSDP that have not yet been approved, and said that the government should focus on finishing important roads in neglected provinces instead of starting unnecessary new ones.
While this short motorway project raised eyebrows, other major road projects are moving ahead. A huge sum of Rs100 billion has been set aside for the N-5 Highway in Balochistan, a region that has long needed better roads and transport links.
In addition to this, foreign aid will help pay for seven other highway projects, which include parts of the M-6 Motorway. These projects are expected to improve connectivity and boost economic growth in various regions.
The committee has asked for a review of priorities so that the country’s limited development funds are spent where they are truly needed. Lawmakers hope that by focusing on underdeveloped areas, Pakistan can build a better and fairer road network for everyone.
