ISLAMABAD, Nov 8 (APP): The Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) ECNEC directed National Highway Authority to construct roads and bridges through Public-Private Partnership.

The ECNEC approved construction of new bridge over Sutlej River at Emanwala, near Multan, costing Rs.1147.77 said Planning Commission press release here on Saturday adding that the bridge would be completed in 22 months.

The project envisages construction of 2-lane, 600 meters long bridge across the river Sutlej at Emanwala.

The CDWP in its meeting held on 18^th September, 2008 had decided to recommend, in principle, the project for approval of the ECNEC subject to the project paying for the maintenance of the bridge through toll.

The bridge will connect Multan with N-5 through the existing provincial road through Jalalpur Pirwala and Uch Sharif.

ECNEC also approved construction of high level bridge over Chanab River Head Muhammad Wala District Multan. The total amended cost of the project would be Rs.2376.8 million and would be completed within 3 years.

ECNEC also approved dualization and rehabilitation of the Larkana-Moen-Jo- Daro road with total cost of Rs.1931.1 million. The project would be completed in 22 months.

The projects include up-gradation of existing 2-lane road to 4-lane, including reconstruction of 8 bridges. The road connects Larkana city with Moenjodaro Airport.

National Highway Authority will execute the above-mentioned projects.  The projects will be funded through Federal/NHA PSDP subject to federalization, other wise 50:50 cost sharing will be done between federal and provincial government. IPDF will explore private sector investment for the project.