Gujrat: The development work on
Shahbazpur bridge (termed ‘economic corridor’ by the locals) over the River
Chenab has been inordinately stalled because of a paucity of funds, according
to news sources.
The project was launched to link Gujrat with Sialkot airport, and further connect to the Sialkot-Lahore motorway. However, the approach road from the Sialkot side has still to be completed.
The project was launched three years ago with an estimated budget of PKR 4.77 billion. Up until June 2018, 90% of the development work had already been completed. However, the contractors of the venture (the National Logistics Cell), and local businessmen, have been awaiting funds required to finish the project for 18 months.
The project now requires a sum of
one billion rupees, that was originally to be released by the Punjab
government. The bridge requires some final work before it can be opened for traffic.
It is expected that the bridge will greatly benefit both Gujrat and Sialkot
districts.
The officials of the chambers of
commerce and industry of both Sialkot and Gujrat have urged the provincial
government to release the remaining capital to finalise the project.
Hazafa reveres the art of writing and has been turned into a property enthusiast by profession. Her daily survival kit includes; tea, coffee, keyboard and paperbacks.
