Islamabad:Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan on Tuesday announced that the government planned to upgrade the historic GT Road to motorway standards, aiming to provide modern, safe and world-class facilities to commuters.
Chairing a high-level meeting of the National Highway Authority Punjab Region, the minister reviewed ongoing and proposed infrastructure projects and approved several key initiatives, said a press release.
In the meeting, Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan stated that the Federal Government aims to bring the GT Road at par with Motorway standards. He noted that since the GT Road generates significant revenue it is imperative to provide commuters with world-class facilities.
He directed NHA officials to implement modern measures to regulate the heavy traffic pressure on National Highways. The meeting reviewed the redesigning of the N-5 Highway from Lahore to Phoolnagar.
Abdul Aleem Khan issued orders for the phased improvement of the GT Road directing that after Phoolnagar, the stretch up to Okara and Sahiwal should be upgraded. He emphasized that all U-turns must meet international standards to prevent traffic congestion.
Emphasizing the safety of children, women and the elderly people, the minister directed the construction of overhead bridges for pedestrians and motorcyclists. It was also decided to install barriers to prevent citizens from crossing roads at dangerous points.
Abdul Aleem Khan instructed that government land should be utilized wherever possible during the land acquisition process to minimize costs. He advised the NHA to adopt a policy of acquiring minimum private land to ensure savings.
Focusing on aesthetics, he directed the renovation of the GT Road including the creation of green areas and the installation of modern lighting, as well. The meeting also discussed the establishment of new toll plazas, service areas, and U-turns.
During the session, a construction advisory group from the private sector presented recommendations for improvement of the GT Road which the Federal Minister appreciated. Federal Secretary for Communications, Chairman NHA and senior officials briefed the Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan on various strategic projects.
