ISLAMABAD: The executive board of National Highway Authority (NHA) met Monday under the chairmanship of Chairman Muhammad Junaid and discussed in detail issues relating to various construction schemes undertaken by the authority. The meeting reviewed various options for realignment of Karakoram Highway at barrier Lake Attaabad, Hunza, Gilgit Baltistan. During the briefing it was apprised that as a first option, a new road 10 meter above the water level would be built. While in the second option, water level may be reduced in Lake to such an extent that the old road be discovered and made usable.
The meeting was further told that the 2nd option is feasible and low in terms of cost and time. Moreover environment of the area is conducive for construction activity. The 2nd option includes construction of 1.36 Km long bridges and tunnels—and will cost $281.973 million. Design of the project is flexible to undertake amendments as per requirement. The meeting also discussed various aspects of quality assurance of the project whereas government of China will make 85% funding.
The meeting also accorded approval of the rationalised cost of Rs 46.8 million of Hassanabdal-Havelain-Mansehra Expressway. The meeting approved revision in scope of work due to flood damages on DI Khan-Sarai Gambila section of Indus Highway. Ninety percent (90%) work on this important segment has been completed. The meeting formed a committee to settle the technical aspects of proposed highway research and training centre to be located 5 Km short to Burhan on M-1. NHA is developing this research centre in collaboration with Japan International Cooperation Agency. The project will cost Rs 898.81 million. The meeting also discussed financial and administrative affairs of NHA.
Dr Waseem Kausar IG NH & MP, Abdul Basit Khan Senior Joint Secretary Ministry of Communications, Mathar Niaz Rana Joint Secretary Ministry of Communications, Muhammad Kazim Idris Chief NTRC, Qazi Iftikhar Ahmed Vice President NESPAK, Munir Ahmed Anjum Chief (T&C) of Planning & Development Division, the Members of NHA and Secretary NHA participated in the meeting. staff report.
