- Rs140.91 Billion Road Infrastructure Plan Aims to Improve Connectivity, Trade, and Economic Growth Across Sindh
Karachi: The Sindh government and the National Assembly Standing Committee on Planning, Development and Special Initiatives have agreed to complete five major federal highway projects across Sindh by June 2027. The projects, valued at Rs140.91 billion, are expected to improve transport infrastructure, strengthen regional connectivity, and support economic growth across the province.
According to Beyond Time News, the timeline was finalized during a high-level review meeting chaired by Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah in Karachi. Federal lawmakers, provincial ministers, and senior officials attended the meeting to assess progress and discuss challenges affecting the ongoing projects.
Five Highway Projects Reviewed
The meeting focused on five major road schemes being developed under the federal Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) with financial support from both the federal and provincial governments.
The projects include:
- Sindh Coastal Highway Extension
- Mehran Highway
- Rohri–Guddu Road
- Tando Allahyar–Tando Adam Dual Carriageway
- Sanghar–Rohri Road
Officials said these highways are designed to improve travel between urban and rural areas while supporting trade, agriculture, and industrial activity throughout Sindh.
Project Cost Exceeds Rs140 Billion
According to Beyond Time News, the revised cost of all five projects has reached Rs140.91 billion.
The funding structure includes:
- Federal Government: Rs96.75 billion
- Government of Sindh: Rs44.15 billion
Participants emphasized that the timely release of federal funds will be essential to keep construction on schedule and achieve the June 2027 completion target.
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Progress Report on Individual Projects
Officials presented updated progress reports on each highway project during the meeting.
Sindh Coastal Highway Extension
The 36-kilometre Coastal Highway Extension carries an estimated cost of Rs37.7 billion.
The work order was issued in June 2026, and the contractor has already mobilized machinery, equipment, and construction teams to the project site.
Mehran Highway
Construction is continuing on the 150-kilometre Mehran Highway, which passes through Khanpur Mahar, Mirpur Mathelo, and Mureed Branch.
The revised project cost stands at Rs17.79 billion. Officials reported that asphalt base work has already been completed on approximately 44 kilometres of the route.
Tando Allahyar–Tando Adam Dual Carriageway
Work is also progressing on the 31.4-kilometre dual carriageway, estimated to cost Rs9.28 billion.
However, authorities identified several challenges that continue to affect construction, including:
- Utility relocation
- Shifting of transmission lines
- Pending approvals from Pakistan Railways
Officials said efforts are underway to resolve these issues without delaying the project timeline.
Nawabshah–Ranipur Dualisation
Construction continues on the 135-kilometre Nawabshah–Ranipur dual carriageway, which has a revised cost of Rs41.03 billion.
The project is regarded as one of Sindh’s most important transport corridors because it will improve freight movement and reduce travel times between major commercial centers.
Sanghar–Rohri Road
The meeting also reviewed work on the 221-kilometre Sanghar–Rohri Road, valued at Rs35.08 billion.
According to project officials, road widening and base construction have been completed on key sections. Asphalt paving is expected to begin in the next phase of construction.
Government Stresses Timely Completion
Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah said modern highways are essential for supporting economic development and improving public transportation.
He stated that the projects would strengthen links between different regions of Sindh while encouraging trade, investment, and business activity.
Furthermore, he directed provincial departments to coordinate closely with federal agencies to remove administrative obstacles, including utility relocation, regulatory approvals, and funding delays.
The chief minister also instructed officials to closely monitor implementation so construction remains on schedule.
Federal Committee Assures Support
The National Assembly Standing Committee, led by Chairman Syed Abdul Qadir Gilani, expressed support for the ongoing infrastructure programme.
Committee members assured provincial authorities that they would help improve coordination among relevant institutions and work toward resolving issues affecting project implementation.
They also emphasized that improved road connectivity is essential for attracting investment, supporting economic expansion, and enhancing public welfare across the province.
Why These Projects Matter
Road infrastructure plays a critical role in Pakistan’s economic development.
Improved highways reduce travel time, lower transportation costs, and facilitate faster movement of agricultural products, industrial goods, and commercial traffic.
In addition, better road networks improve access to education, healthcare, tourism, and public services for communities across Sindh.
Once completed, these projects are expected to strengthen regional integration while supporting long-term economic growth.
Possible Implications
Better Regional Connectivity
The highways will improve transport links between major cities, towns, and rural districts across Sindh.
Faster Trade and Freight Movement
Businesses and transport operators are expected to benefit from shorter travel times and lower logistics costs.
Increased Investment Opportunities
Modern road infrastructure may encourage industrial development and private-sector investment in surrounding areas.
Improved Public Mobility
Residents will gain easier access to education, healthcare, employment, and commercial centers through improved transportation networks.
Conclusion
The agreement to complete five major highway projects by June 2027 reflects a joint commitment by the federal and Sindh governments to strengthen transportation infrastructure across the province. While funding, utility relocation, and regulatory approvals remain key challenges, officials have expressed confidence that stronger coordination will help keep construction on track.
According to Beyond Time News, both governments have pledged to ensure timely funding, remove administrative hurdles, and closely monitor progress so the projects can be completed within the agreed timeframe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total cost of the five highway projects?
The combined revised cost of the projects is Rs140.91 billion.
When are the projects expected to be completed?
Federal and provincial authorities have set June 2027 as the target completion date.
Who is funding the projects?
The federal government will provide Rs96.75 billion, while the Sindh government will contribute Rs44.15 billion.
Which highways are included in the programme?
The projects include the Sindh Coastal Highway Extension, Mehran Highway, Rohri–Guddu Road, Tando Allahyar–Tando Adam Dual Carriageway, and Sanghar–Rohri Road.
Why are these projects important?
The highways are expected to improve connectivity, facilitate trade, reduce travel time, support economic growth, and enhance public mobility throughout Sindh.
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