In a move set to significantly improve travel for a large portion of the province, the Punjab government has announced the construction of five new expressways. The ambitious project, approved by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz with a budget of Rs. 139.5 billion, aims to connect major districts and enhance overall connectivity within Punjab.
Sharing details of the project, Minister for Communication and Works, Sohaib Ahmed, outlined the specific expressways that will be built:
- Bahawalpur N5 to Jhangra Sharqi Interchange Expressway: This 42-kilometer expressway, costing Rs. 13 billion, will provide a faster and more efficient route between Bahawalpur and the Jhangra Sharqi Interchange.
- Multan to Vehari Expressway: This expressway, stretching 93 kilometers and funded with Rs. 26.50 billion, will significantly reduce travel time between Multan and Vehari.
- Chichawatni to Pir Mahal-Shorkot to Garhmahraja-Chowk Azam to Layyah Expressway: This ambitious 199-kilometer expressway, with a budget of Rs. 66 billion, will connect a multitude of districts, including Chichawatni, Pir Mahal, Shorkot, Garhmahraja, Chowk Azam, and Layyah.
- Sahiwal to Samundri Interchange Expressway: This 57-kilometer expressway, funded with Rs. 23 billion, will establish a quicker link between Sahiwal and the Samundri Interchange.
- Faisalabad Chiniot to Kamal Pur Interchange to Tehsil Chowk Chiniot Expressway: The 24-kilometer expressway, costing Rs. 11 billion, will improve connectivity within Faisalabad and Chiniot districts.
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Minister Ahmed highlighted the widespread positive impact this project will have. “A large number of citizens from various districts, including Bahawalpur, Multan, Vehari, Chichawatni, Pir Mahal, Sahiwal, Faisalabad, Chiniot, and Layyah, will benefit from these projects,” he stated.
The construction of these expressways signifies a major investment in Punjab’s infrastructure. This initiative is expected to not only reduce travel times but also boost economic activity and trade between the connected districts.
