Senate Flags Delays Driving Cost Escalation in Road Projects
News Desk
Islamabad: The Senate Standing Committee on Communications on Monday reviewed budgetary allocations for the current financial year and proposed allocations for the upcoming year, expressing serious concern over delays in road infrastructure projects that are driving up costs.
The Committee, chaired by Senator Pervaiz Rashid, received a detailed briefing on ongoing projects of the National Highway Authority (NHA), discussed the deteriorating condition of roads raised during Senate proceedings, and reviewed the implementation status of the Escalation Price Adjustment Formula.
Senators Dost Ali Jeesar, Jam Saifullah Khan, Palwasha Mohammad Zai Khan, Mohammad Abdul Qadir, Kamil Ali Agha, Niaz Ahmad and Muhammad Talha Mahmood attended the meeting, while Senators Falak Naz and Hidayatullah Khan participated as special invitees.
Reviewing budget releases for the current year and proposals for the next, the Committee was informed that a major share of NHA funding comes through PSDP-supported projects. Members expressed concern that insufficient and delayed fund releases were slowing project execution and leading to significant cost escalations.
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Senator Jam Saifullah Khan underscored the importance of the Sukkur–Hyderabad Motorway, calling for it to be treated as a priority project and directing that progress updates be presented at every Committee meeting.
The Committee noted the slow pace of road infrastructure projects nationwide and recommended developing a mechanism to avoid the simultaneous execution of multiple projects. It suggested that undertaking projects sequentially would help curb cost escalation and ensure timely completion, and called for consultation with the Planning Commission in this regard. The Chairman directed that responsibility for project delays be clearly fixed and that escalation costs be borne by those found responsible.
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Serious concerns were also raised over the deteriorating condition of motorways and the Lawari Tunnel, particularly regarding safety, ventilation and quality standards, given the tunnel’s strategic importance. The Committee emphasized the need for protective roofing and enhanced safety measures on roads in mountainous regions, including Chitral.
It was noted that several NHA road connectivity projects are currently underway in Balochistan. The Chairman directed that detailed project specifications be shared with the Committee and inspection visits for members be arranged.
The Sub-Committee of the Senate Standing Committee on Communications presented its unanimous report, which was appreciated by the Chairman and members. The Committee was also briefed on progress related to the Chakdara–Chitral and Gilgit–Shandur road projects.
Additionally, the Committee reviewed the implementation of the Prime Minister-approved Escalation Price Adjustment Formula. Members warned that delays in its implementation could further inflate contractors’ claims and termed such delays contrary to the Prime Minister’s directives.
The Chairman directed the Chairman NHA to resolve the issue promptly and submit quarterly progress reports to the Committee.
