Lowari Tunnel: NHA told to complete project early

“The completion of the project will increase trade, tourism, industrial activity in the region,” Minister Dr Alamgir.

PESHAWAR: The Ministry of Communications on Friday directed the National Highway Authority (NHA) to accelerate the pace of work on the Lowari Tunnel Project. The directives were issued during an emergency meeting held at the NHA headquarters. Federal Minister for Communications Dr Arbab Alamgir said that the tunnel would not only facilitate ease the traffic problems of residents of the area, but will also strengthen road links with Central Asian countries. “The completion of the project will minimise distances, which in turn will increase trade, tourism and industrial activity in the region,” he said. The minister urged NHA officials to ensure early completion of the tunnel, adding that Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani and President Asif Ali Zardari wanted early completion of the project. NHA Chairperson Muhammad Ali Gardezi was assured of provision of more funds to ensure timely completion of the project. He said his team was working diligently on the project.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 15^th, 2011.