Lahore to Raiwind 16-Kilometer Motorway Project Raises Concerns in Senate Committee Meeting

Islamabad: During a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Planning, it was revealed that a 16-kilometer-long motorway would be constructed between Lahore and Raiwind. The meeting, chaired by Senator Quratul Ain Marri, discussed various developmental projects.
Officials from the Ministry of Planning informed the committee that the Public Sector Development Program (PSDP) for the last fiscal year saw an expenditure of one trillion rupees. The current year’s PSDP includes 55 unapproved projects, for which the Planning Commission will issue No Objection Certificates (NOCs) after conducting a thorough review.
The meeting also highlighted that 100 billion rupees have been allocated for the N-5 Highway in Balochistan, with foreign aid available for seven highway projects. The Islamic Development Bank will provide financial assistance for the construction of the M-6 motorway in three sections, while two other sections will be built under a public-private partnership.
Additionally, the Hyderabad-Sukkur motorway, along with the existing GT Road in the region, will be upgraded. Senator Sadia Abbasi expressed concern over the issue of termites damaging books in the Islamabad Public Library and revealed plans to open an Allama Iqbal Research Center and Library in the capital.
Senator Abbasi emphasized that development funds should be utilized appropriately, adding, “Our remarks are often seen as statements against ministers.” She also raised questions about the National Heritage Center project.
Chairperson Quratul Ain Marri argued that a new motorway should not be constructed in Punjab until those under construction in other provinces are completed. Senator Manzoor Kakar called for prioritizing the completion of the Yark-Quetta road (N-50).
Officials from the National Highway Authority (NHA) confirmed that a 16-kilometer motorway will be built from Lahore to Raiwind. In response, Quratul Ain Marri asked, “Are you building a motorway just for one house?” It was also mentioned that the cost of the project would be borne by the provincial government, and currently, NHA is conducting a land survey.