Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan Initiates Anti-Corruption Drive in NHA

Corruption has long been a significant issue in various sectors of Pakistan, and the National Highway Authority (NHA) is no exception. The NHA is responsible for the construction and maintenance of highways and motorways across the country, making it a crucial entity for national infrastructure. However, reports of corrupt practices within the organization have raised concerns about the efficiency and integrity of its operations. In response to these issues, Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan has taken a firm stand against corruption, mandating immediate action to address the problem.

On Thursday, during a high-level meeting that included the federal secretary of communications and the NHA chairman, Khan emphasized a strict zero-tolerance policy towards corruption. He set a one-week deadline for the identification and removal of corrupt officers and staff within the NHA. This decisive move aims to restore public trust in the authority and ensure that projects are completed efficiently and transparently.

During the meeting, the minister reviewed the progress of several key highway projects, including those connecting Bela to Awaran and Zhob to Loralai. He directed that construction on these projects be accelerated to meet the established timelines. Khan's insistence on a six-lane construction for motorways from Lahore, Sialkot, and Kharian to Islamabad, instead of the previously planned four lanes, underscores the need for enhanced capacity and safety on these vital routes.

Moreover, Khan called for an extensive “clean-up” operation to remove corrupt officials from the NHA. He highlighted the importance of having qualified and honest officers in positions of responsibility, as their integrity directly impacts the quality of infrastructure development in the country. The minister also urged for the urgent implementation of projects aimed at improving the overall safety of highways and motorways. This includes the installation of CCTV cameras along all major routes and the establishment of electronic toll plazas to streamline traffic and enhance security.

In addition to these measures, Khan emphasized the need for provincial cooperation in new road projects, recognizing that collaboration is essential for the successful execution of infrastructure initiatives. By fostering a spirit of teamwork among different levels of government, the minister hopes to create a more efficient and effective approach to road development.

The recent actions taken by Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan signal a significant shift towards accountability and transparency within the NHA. By addressing corruption head-on and prioritizing the completion of critical infrastructure projects, the government aims to improve the quality of roads and highways across Pakistan. This not only enhances safety for travelers but also supports economic growth by facilitating better transportation networks. As the nation looks forward to these developments, it is crucial for all stakeholders to remain vigilant and committed to upholding integrity in public service.