The National Highway Authority (NHA) has formalized a significant agreement with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for the construction of two segments of the M6 Motorway. This motorway will connect Karachi to Sukkur, marking a major advancement in Pakistan’s infrastructure development.
Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan expressed his approval of the strategic partnership between the ADB and NHA, highlighting the importance of the M6 Motorway. Earlier in February, he announced that construction would commence in May under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework, aiming to foster transparency and attract private investment.
Describing the project as a crucial gateway to Pakistan’s future growth, Aleem Khan noted that the M6 Motorway had been delayed for over three decades but has now achieved a breakthrough after two years of focused efforts. He emphasized that this motorway is the essential missing link in the country’s North-South corridor, vital for sustainable economic progress.
The minister further elaborated that the M6 is among Pakistan’s most critical infrastructure projects, designed to serve as a backbone for trade and logistics. Once completed, it will enable uninterrupted motorway travel from Karachi Port to Peshawar and Gilgit, significantly enhancing the national transport network.
The motorway will span 306 kilometers with six lanes, incorporating modern tolling and safety features. It will include 15 interchanges and 10 advanced service areas to support both travelers and commercial vehicles. The two sections under the new agreement, stretching from Hyderabad to Nawabshah, will be developed through the PPP model.
Additionally, financing for three other sections has already been approved by the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) and the OPEC Fund. The entire M6 Motorway project is scheduled for completion within the next two years.
In conclusion, Abdul Aleem Khan stressed that linking Karachi’s ports with northern regions is a national priority that will unlock fresh investment opportunities and enhance Pakistan’s regional trade connectivity.
