ISLAMABAD, Mar 5 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday appreciated Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan and his team for the increase in National Highway Authority (NHA)’s revenue, effective implementation of safety measures on motorways and highways, improvement of service areas, and other initiatives.
He was chairing a meeting to review the performance of the National Highway Authority (NHA).
During the meeting, the prime minister was informed that compared to 2024, NHA’s revenue increased from Rs. 66.8 billion to Rs. 109 billion in the fiscal year 2025. “The 63% increase in revenue was made possible through improved toll tax collection and other measures implemented on the prime minister’s directives,” the meeting was informed.
The prime minister said that the open and transparent auction of NHA toll plazas was a commendable step and directed that the highest standards of quality must be ensured during the repair and maintenance of motorways.
The meeting was informed that compared to 2024, the use of M-Tag on motorways increased from 20% to 81% in 2025.
Compliance with axle load limits on highways and motorways has reached 90% and 95% respectively, which has helped reduce accidents, lessen pressure on roads, and increase their lifespan, the participants of the meeting were informed.
It was also shared that along with improving existing service areas on motorways, new service areas are also being developed on national highways.
The meeting was told that an air ambulance service will be introduced on motorways this year. In addition, Rescue 1122 services remain available at all motorway interchanges at all times.
It was further informed that the upgradation of Lyari Expressway, Thokar Niaz Baig (N-5), and the Islamabad–Murree Expressway had been completed through NHA’s own budget.
The prime minister appreciated the efforts of the communication minister and his team and directed that all ongoing projects be completed within the stipulated timeframe.
The meeting was attended by Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal, Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan, Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema, and other senior government officials.