M-6 Motorway Back on Track, Construction Begins in May
The long-awaited M-6 Sukkur-Hyderabad Motorway project, a key link in Pakistan’s north-south transport corridor is set to officially begin construction in May 2026, Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan announced on Tuesday.
Speaking at a high-level meeting of the National Highway Authority (NHA) in Islamabad, Mr. Aleem Khan underscored that the project remains a top priority for the federal government and stressed the need for immediate, decisive action to ensure there are no further delays.
The 306-kilometre M-6 Motorway, which will connect Sukkur and Hyderabad, is considered the last major missing link in Pakistan’s north-south motorway network, improving connectivity between Sindh and southern Punjab, and enhancing access for trade and commerce.
Execution Plan and Strategic Upgrades
The communications minister confirmed that the Sukkur-Hyderabad link and associated motorway segments, including planned routes toward Karachi, will be delivered under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to ensure efficiency and long-term sustainability. Work on all sections is to proceed simultaneously to meet the targeted completion schedule.
In addition to M-6, the government has decided that the Sialkot-Kharian Motorway (M-12) will be constructed with six lanes rather than the previously planned four, a move aimed at accommodating future traffic volumes and economic growth.
“We aren’t building infrastructure just for today, we’re preparing for the country’s needs over the next 30 years,” the minister said, emphasizing the broader strategic vision behind the project.
Connectivity and Economic Impact
Officials at the NHA meeting discussed plans to strengthen regional utility by improving links between the motorway network and major religious tourism centres such as Kartarpur and Nankana Sahib, initiatives expected to boost local economies.
To promote these routes internationally, the Communications Ministry also announced upcoming roadshows in Canada, the United States, and Europe aimed at expanding interest and investment in Pakistan’s transport infrastructure.
Background and Development Context
The M-6 project has faced multiple delays over the past years due to financing and administrative challenges. However, with key funding arrangements in place, including support from international lenders and land acquisition processes beginning in earnest, authorities are confident that construction will advance according to the new schedule.
Once complete, the motorway is expected to reduce travel times significantly, improve freight movement, and stimulate economic activity in key regions, reinforcing its role as a strategic artery in Pakistan’s national transport grid.
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