Lahore: The Central Development Working Party (CDWP) has conditionally recommended the Lahore–Bahawalnagar Motorway project, estimated at PKR 465 billion, for final consideration by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec).
According to official sources, the approval was granted subject to the resolution of several technical and financial aspects of the project. The motorway scheme, which aims to improve regional connectivity and reduce travel time between central and southern Punjab, will now be placed before Ecnec for final approval.
The project cost has been revised since its initial proposal, reflecting updated estimates based on prevailing construction rates and design requirements. The CDWP noted that the revised cost framework would need to be further reviewed to ensure alignment with national development priorities and available fiscal space.
The motorway is planned in two sections. The first section comprises a 220-kilometre, six-lane motorway from Lahore Ring Road to National Highway N-5 near Kassuwal. The second section involves a 75-kilometre, four-lane motorway connecting Depalpur to the Michanabad–Bahawalnagar road. Once completed, the project is expected to enhance freight movement, improve road safety, and support economic activity in the region.
During the CDWP meeting, members discussed funding arrangements and project structuring, emphasising the importance of ensuring a clear and sustainable financing plan before implementation. The Communications Ministry, which is sponsoring the project, assured the forum that outstanding issues related to financing, design finalisation, and implementation strategy would be addressed in coordination with relevant stakeholders.
The Planning Commission highlighted the need to carefully sequence major infrastructure projects to maintain balance across the national transport network. It was agreed that these considerations would be examined in greater detail at the Ecnec stage.
The Lahore–Bahawalnagar Motorway is proposed to be completed over a five-year period following final approval. If cleared by Ecnec, the project is expected to play a key role in strengthening Punjab’s motorway network and improving intercity connectivity.
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