The Senate Standing Committee on Communications, chaired by Senator Pervaiz Rashid, reviewed current budgetary allocations and proposals for the next financial year with a sharp focus on NHA projects and execution timelines. Committee members raised concerns that delayed budget releases for PSDP-funded works are driving steep cost escalations and undermining project delivery across the country.
Senator Jam Saifullah Khan underlined the urgency of treating the Sukkur–Hyderabad Motorway as a priority and directed that progress updates be presented at every Committee meeting. The Committee stressed that coordinated sequencing of projects is essential, proposing a mechanism to avoid simultaneous starts that contribute to delays and higher costs, and urged consultation with the Planning Commission to devise this approach.
Members demanded that clear responsibility be fixed for any project delays and that escalation costs be recovered from those accountable. The Committee also examined the deteriorating condition of several motorways and raised specific safety and ventilation concerns about the Lawari Tunnel, noting its strategic importance and the need to uphold strict quality standards.
Protective roofing and enhanced safety measures for mountainous roads, particularly in Chitral, were discussed along with the fact that numerous NHA projects are active in Balochistan. The Chairman directed the NHA to provide detailed project specifications and to arrange inspection visits for Committee members to verify on-site progress.
The Sub-Committee presented a unanimous report which received appreciation for its thorough work, and members were briefed on the Chakdara–Chitral and Gilgit–Shandur road projects. On the Escalation Price Adjustment Formula approved by the Prime Minister, the Committee warned that any delay in implementation could swell contractors’ claims and run counter to directives, instructing the Chairman NHA to address the matter swiftly and submit quarterly progress reports.
