Pakistan’s Road Projects Hit Snags, Senate Raises Concerns

Islamabad – Pakistan’s Senate Standing Committee on Communications raised serious concerns about widespread delays in the execution of major road and highway projects across the country. 

During its session on February 10, 2026, the panel stressed that overlapping schemes and poor coordination are inflating costs and slowing delivery. 

Committee chair Pervaiz Rashid urged a shift to a phased execution model, where projects are started and completed one at a time, to cut waste and delays. The body also called for a formal mechanism, in consultation with the Planning Commission, to enforce this approach consistently. 

The Senate reviewed current and proposed federal budgets for the National Highway Authority (NHA), noting that a large portion of NHA funding comes from PSDP allocations. While some projects are underway, execution is falling short of targets.

Senators directed that clear responsibility be fixed for delays, with cost escalations borne by those accountable. Priority projects, such as the Sukkur‑Hyderabad Motorway, were specifically highlighted for more frequent progress reporting. 

Beyond delays, the committee also addressed concerns about deteriorating road conditions and the operational performance of critical infrastructure such as the Lowari Tunnel, citing ventilation and safety standards issues that need urgent attention. 

For motorists and the broader transport sector, these delays could mean prolonged construction phases, slower connectivity between economic hubs, and rising costs for commuters and freight. Stakeholders from provincial governments, development partners, and financiers are likely to watch this space for clearer action plans.

Get instant updates — follow PakWheels on Google News.