Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that construction work on the long-awaited Karachi–Chaman highway has officially begun, promising completion within one year instead of the originally proposed two-year timeline. He described the project as critical for improving safety and connectivity on a route long known for frequent and deadly accidents.
While addressing federal cabinet members, the prime minister said he recently visited Quetta to lay the foundation stone of the nearly 850-kilometre highway linking Karachi with Chaman. He added that the project would cost around Rs400 billion and would be fully financed by the federal government.
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Moreover, the prime minister explained that funds for the highway were made available through savings generated earlier when the government chose not to reduce domestic fuel prices despite falling international oil rates. He said these savings are now being used to convert a dangerous road into a symbol of economic growth.
In addition, Prime Minister Sharif highlighted the completion of a Rs75 billion agricultural support package aimed at strengthening farmers in the province. He noted that Rs50 billion was provided by the federal government and helped resolve electricity theft issues through sustainable energy solutions.
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Through the installation of solar panels, farmers can now independently irrigate their lands, ensuring continuous agricultural activity without relying on unstable power supplies. He said this step has improved productivity while promoting clean and long-term energy use in rural areas.
Furthermore, the prime minister announced progress on Danish schools in the province, confirming that construction has begun and contractors are already mobilised. He stated that five schools were previously planned, with two more added during his visit, raising the total to seven.