GT Road set to witness major upgrades

In a bid to improve intra-national connectivity, authorities have decided to rehabilitate and expand the GT Road (N-5). According to reports, Minister of Communications Abdul Aleem Khan chaired a meeting where relevant authorities decided to complete the upgrade in two phases.

Analysts have outlined how GT Road will become a three-lane roadway, similar to the layout of motorways. Information from a press statement reveals that the project aims to standardise road quality across the GT Road.

Reports suggest that key officials passed suggestions regarding the GT Road’s rehabilitation process. These officials were primarily from the Economic Affairs Division, Planning Department and the Ministry of Communications. 

According to a press statement, the Chairman of the National Highway Authority presented recommendations during the meeting as well. Abdul Aleem highlighted the importance of a prompt response to the worsening condition on GT Road.

Moreover, he outlined the need to combat financial mismanagement by prudently employing the available project funds to prevent cost overruns. Historically, infrastructure projects have faced significant cost overruns and been plagued by transparency issues.

Abdul Aleem has issued directives to relevant authorities to get officials to begin work on upgrade proposals. Reports reveal that he conceded how previous projects resulted in massive losses to the national exchequer. 

However, he also revealed that he would be inspecting the process closely, visiting project locations on the GT Road. Furthermore, he ordered key officials, including the NHA’s chairman, to carry out visits throughout the development stages. 

If authorities carry out field visits diligently, it could ensure that progress continues smoothly. Upgrades to the GT Road could also cut travel times, allowing a greater volume of goods to pass across the country. Lower travel times could significantly facilitate production processes and boost exports. 

According to reports, authorities have already shared restoration plans based on the project’s current budget. Officials intend to reduce travel-related difficulties by upgrading the GT Road on a district-to-district basis. 

Relevant stakeholders have claimed that the first phase restoration works and necessary upgrades will be completed before FY 2025-26 starts. With approximately two months remaining till the end of the current fiscal year, many remain sceptical regarding the speed of the progress, given how upgrades will have to be completed along the full length of the 2,400 kilometre road.