N-25 Karachi-Quetta-Chaman Expressway project to cost Rs415 billion: Aleem Khan

ISLAMABAD, Sep 03 (APP):Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan and Governor Balochistan Jaffar Khan Mandokhail on Thursday discussed the development of the communications sector in Balochistan, including ongoing and proposed National Highway Authority (NHA) projects and construction of major highways across the province.

During a meeting here, they reviewed progress on the N-25 Karachi–Quetta–Chaman Pakistan Expressway, a major project costing Rs. 415 billion, along with various NHA projects in Balochistan, particularly the Zhob Bypass and other important highways, said a press release.

The minister said that the Pakistan Expressway project would make travel between Karachi and Quetta faster and more convenient while also reducing the travel distance between the two cities. He said the N-25 Karachi–Quetta–Chaman Pakistan Expressway would serve as an important trade route for Balochistan as well as the country and its completion would help promote trade, transportation and economic activities in the region.

Aleem Khan said that the N-25 Karachi–Quetta–Chaman Pakistan Expressway is a major development project, while the government is ensuring the completion of National Highway projects in Balochistan on a priority basis. He emphasized that, given Balochistan’s geographical importance, a modern and secure road network in the province is vital for national development and regional trade.

  Abdul Aleem Khan said that the Ministry of Communications and the NHA are continuously monitoring the progress of ongoing projects in Balochistan while all necessary measures are being taken to improve communication and transportation facilities across the province.

Governor Balochistan Jaffar Khan Mandokhail thanked Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan for giving special attention to National Highway projects in Balochistan. He appreciated the NHA’s services for the construction and development of highways in the province and also lauded the federal government’s efforts regarding the N-25 Pakistan Expressway. Governor said that the NHA is rendering valuable services for Balochistan and that completion of highway projects in the province would provide better travelling facilities to the people while creating new opportunities for trade and economic activities.

Federal Secretary for Communications, Chairman National Highway Authority, and other relevant officials were also present during the meeting.