Multan: The National Highway Authority (NHA) has approved PKR 4.6 billion for the reconstruction and dualisation of the long-neglected Multan–Lodhran Road, with construction work expected to begin within the next month.
The 62-kilometre project received formal approval following a request by Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani. Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan has also granted approval for the scheme, which will be financed entirely through the Road Maintenance Account Fund.
According to officials, the project is scheduled for completion within one year. In addition to dualising the highway, around 44.8 kilometres of the existing carriageway will be elevated to ensure both carriageways are at a uniform level, improving road safety and traffic flow.
The Multan–Lodhran Road has remained in poor condition for years, causing safety risks, traffic congestion, and prolonged travel times for commuters and commercial transporters. Once completed, the upgraded highway is expected to reduce travel time, improve connectivity, and facilitate economic activity across South Punjab.
Welcoming the development, Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani said the project fulfils a long-standing commitment made to the residents of Multan and Lodhran. He said the reconstruction and dualisation of the highway would provide safer, more efficient, and higher-quality travel facilities for the public.
Gilani added that addressing longstanding infrastructure challenges in South Punjab remains a priority and expressed confidence that the project would be completed within the stipulated timeframe.
The road upgrade follows the cancellation of an earlier contract awarded in 2021. At the time, the NHA had awarded a PKR 6.86 billion contract to Ningxia Communication Construction for the project. However, the authority disqualified the contractor in 2023 after it failed to complete the work.
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