NHA plans to build Basima-Khuzdar Highway, vital link between N-85,N-25,M-8

ISLAMABAD, Apr 1 (APP):National Highway Authority (NHA) has planned to build 106- kilometer Basima-Khuzdar Highway, which would constitute a significant link between Surab–Hoshab Highway (N-85), Karachi- Kalat- Quetta -Chaman Highway (N-25) and Rattodero-Gwadar Motorway (M-8) and would be a part of China Pakistan Economic Corridor.

An official of NHA told APP on Monday that for construction of this section of road, the authority intends to engage a consultant/engineering firm to carry out consultancy services for design review and construction supervision.

The NHA has invited proposals from reputable consultants and engineering organizations.Pre-proposal conference was held last week. The proposals complete in all respects should reach on or before April 16.

To a question, he said the existing road which has a two-lane facility is in a very poor condition and hardly meets the description of the facility required for the purpose.

It is in line with the government’s plan of upgradation of the transportation network in the adjoining area of Gwadar Port to cater for the increased traffic and expected boom in the economic activities in the area and the country, the NHA official said.

The planned road, he said, will largely contribute to the economic and social development of Balochistan and it will bring more population into the stream of benefits, which in turn will change the social complexion of people around this road and will transform the entire pattern of transportation in the surrounding areas resulting in uplift of economic condition of local community.

This highway will bring about further revolution in road transport and time saving journey for passengers and will also contribute to ensure smooth and efficient movement of trade, goods and traffic in relatively shorter time, he added.