ISLAMABAD, Feb 7 (ABC): The Zonal Committee of the National Highway Authority (NHA) has recommended revising the project cost for Sections I and II of the Khuzdar–Kuchlak dualization scheme on the Balochistan Expressway (N-25), following updated estimates submitted by contractors, according to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan.
The committee reviewed the revised cost proposal after contractors highlighted changes in construction expenses and project requirements. Officials say the updated figures aim to reflect ground realities and ensure the timely completion of the strategically important highway.
Contractors submit revised estimates
According to the documents, the rehabilitation and dualization work has been awarded to M/s SMAD Baloch and M/s Umar Jan in a joint venture with NPI.
After receiving the contractors’ revised cost calculations, the zonal committee recommended that the proposal be reconsidered at higher levels. The revised cost will now be examined in light of observations and comments by the Dispute Resolution Committee (DRC) as well as the Planning and Contract Administration (P&CA) wing.
Officials said this process will help determine the final financial requirements and ensure transparency in cost adjustments.
Major highway upgrade approved
The Khuzdar–Kuchlak project forms part of the broader rehabilitation of the Balochistan Expressway (N-25), one of the province’s most critical transport corridors.
Last year, the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) approved the dualization of the 332-kilometre Khuzdar–Kuchlak stretch at an estimated cost of around Rs100 billion.
Authorities expect the entire project to be completed within two years.
The dual carriageway will replace the existing single road, which often faces congestion, accidents and weather-related disruptions.
Safety and connectivity benefits
A senior official from the NHA’s Engineering Wing told Wealth Pakistan that the dualization of the Khuzdar–Kuchlak section will significantly improve road safety and operational efficiency.
“The project will reduce travel time and lower transportation costs for both passengers and freight,” the official said.
He told Wealth Pakistan that the upgraded road will provide smoother connectivity between Balochistan’s key districts and major national markets.
As a result, trade flows are expected to improve, while tourism and regional economic activity may also receive a boost.
Reducing accidents and improving mobility
The N-25 has long been considered accident-prone due to heavy traffic, narrow lanes and poor road conditions. Therefore, officials believe the new carriageway will help reduce accidents and ensure uninterrupted movement of goods and vehicles.
Improved infrastructure will also support faster emergency response and better law enforcement mobility.
Moreover, year-round accessibility will benefit remote communities, especially during adverse weather conditions when road closures often disrupt travel.
Jobs and local development
Beyond transport benefits, the project is expected to generate employment during the construction phase.
Officials say thousands of direct and indirect jobs may be created, supporting local workers and small businesses.
In the long run, better road connectivity could stimulate investment and contribute to socio-economic development across Balochistan.
Analysts note that improved highways typically strengthen supply chains, reduce logistics costs and integrate remote regions into national markets.
Additional projects underway
Separately, the federal government has also approved the dualization of the 104-kilometre Karoro Wadh–Khuzdar–Chaman section at a cost of Rs133 billion.
An allocation of Rs33 billion has been earmarked for the current fiscal year. However, officials estimate that around Rs50 billion annually will be required over the next two years to complete the project on schedule.
Together, these highway upgrades form part of a broader effort to modernise Balochistan’s road infrastructure and enhance inter-provincial connectivity.