The cost of the Hyderabad-Sukkur Motorway (M-6) is projected to rise to Rs400 billion, up from the original estimate of Rs308.194 billion, as revealed during a Senate Standing Committee on Communications meeting chaired by Senator Pervaiz Rashid.
The committee was briefed by NHA Chairman Sheheryar Sultan, who explained that the revised cost through Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) would be around Rs355 billion, while the cost through Public Private Partnership (PPP) is estimated at Rs399 billion. He noted that various international stakeholders, including the World Bank and the Asia Infrastructure Bank, are being approached to secure investment for the PPP model. The project is also under discussion for inclusion in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
The average daily traffic count on N-5 and N-55 is 18,000-20,000 vehicles, with a potential diversion of 6% to 46% of traffic to M-6. However, freight transport continues to favor the Indus Highway due to its shorter route compared to the motorway.
The committee also reviewed NHA’s ongoing PSDP projects. The NHA is currently managing 28 projects across Pakistan but faces funding challenges, having received only Rs161 billion against its Rs600 billion demand. Progress has been stagnant, particularly in areas affected by deteriorating law and order.
