Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan today directed the National Highway Authority (NHA) to ensure the early completion of the remaining works on the Lyari Expressway, with plans to invite the Prime Minister and Chief Minister of Sindh for its inauguration.

During a high-level meeting, the minister emphasized that the Lyari Expressway is to be developed as a “model road” for Karachi. He mandated that special arrangements for cleanliness, landscaping, and beautification should set a new quality benchmark for urban infrastructure.

While the toll plaza, lining, and lighting work on the thoroughfare have been completed, Abdul Aleem Khan instructed that M-Tag facilities must also be ensured. He further ordered the extension of amenities similar to those on the Islamabad-Murree Expressway, including rest areas. To oversee these enhancements, the NHA Chairman was directed to personally visit the site.

The communications minister noted that several “tough decisions” had been taken to improve the quality of work on the vital project.

Separately, the meeting was informed that construction has officially commenced on the 800-kilometer N-25 (Pakistan Expressway) in Balochistan. The project, previously announced by the Prime Minister, will connect the major routes of Karachi, Quetta, and Chaman.

Abdul Aleem Khan described the new Balochistan highway as a “strategic milestone” and a “transformative step” for the socio-economic development of the nation”s largest province by area. He added that the building of such roads represents a “major breakthrough” for the region.

The minister also reviewed the progress of other ongoing projects in Balochistan, including the M-8, which is crucial for enhancing connectivity with Gwadar Port. Officials from the NHA also briefed the minister on security matters and other aspects related to construction activities in the province.

The meeting was attended by the Secretary of Communications, the Chairman of the NHA, and other relevant officers.