Gujrat: Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif has launched work on a mega infrastructure project that will connect Gujranwala to the Lahore-Sialkot Motorway (M-11), according to news published on July 16.
Read: Lahore-Sialkot motorway to be linked with Gujranwala
The premier has directed the relevant authority to complete the project before the general elections, as it will be a significant addition to the province’s infrastructure. The Frontier Works Organisation (FWO) will execute the 15.2-kilometre link road and is asked to complete the project in 90 days, costing PKR 11 billion. The FWO has already started working on the project and has moved its machinery to the site.
This new expressway will begin at Benazir Chowk, located between Chan Da Qila and Morr Aimenabad along GT Road, and will connect to the Lahore-Sialkot Motorway at Wahndo. To accommodate the increased traffic, the existing 20-foot-wide road will be expanded to a 330-foot-wide dual carriageway. It was mentioned that additional land has been acquired for the project.
Funding for the project has been provided by the federal government, with the Punjab Communications and Works Department overseeing the execution. The local business community, including the Gujranwala Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), has been eagerly awaiting this connection to M-11.
Read: GCCI asks Punjab to link Gujrat with Sialkot-Lahore Motorway
The construction firm has already started the groundwork after resolving legal issues related to land acquisition and clearing the way for the project. Utility services along the route have also been addressed to ensure a smooth and speedy execution of the project.