K-P CM orders immediate start of Swat Motorway Phase II

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has directed the immediate start of construction on Swat Motorway Phase II, declaring it a flagship project of the provincial government and assuring priority provision of all required resources to ensure timely completion.

Chairing a high-level meeting on major road sector projects on Saturday, the chief minister instructed relevant departments to resolve all technical and administrative issues without delay. He emphasized that infrastructure development, particularly road connectivity, is vital for economic growth, tourism promotion, and improved access to remote areas.

During the meeting, Afridi also announced that the groundbreaking ceremony for the Peshawar–Dera Ismail Khan Motorway would be held soon. He directed authorities to complete all preparatory work, including legal, financial, and technical requirements, at the earliest to avoid any construction delays.

The meeting reviewed progress on three key projects: Swat Motorway Phase II, the Peshawar–Dera Ismail Khan Motorway, and the proposed Dir Motorway. It was decided in principle that the Dir Motorway would be constructed entirely through provincial resources. The Chief Minister instructed departments to expedite all legal and administrative formalities so that work on the Dir Motorway could begin promptly.

Officials briefed that both Swat Motorway Phase II and the Peshawar–Dera Ismail Khan Motorway are being developed under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model, while the Dir Motorway will be fully financed by the provincial government, reflecting its commitment to improving connectivity in relatively underdeveloped and remote regions.

Swat Motorway Phase II will span 80 kilometres, extending from Chakdara Interchange to Fatahpur, featuring nine interchanges and seven bridges over the Swat River. The project is expected to significantly improve travel for residents and tourists and boost economic activity in Malakand division.

The Peshawar–Dera Ismail Khan Motorway will be 365 kilometres long and include 19 interchanges and two tunnels. Once completed, it will provide a modern transport corridor linking southern districts with the provincial capital, reducing travel time and enhancing trade and mobility.

Addressing the meeting, CM Afridi reiterated that the provincial government is prioritizing the development and prosperity of people in remote and less-developed areas. He stressed that effective and transparent use of resources would ensure sustainable development and tangible benefits for the public.

The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah, Additional Chief Secretary Planning and Development Ikramullah, Secretary Finance, Secretary Communication and Works, and other senior officials responsible for planning and execution of the projects.