By Sabica Tahira ⏐ 1 month ago ⏐ Newspaper Icon Newspaper Icon 2 min read
Lawmakers Question Irregularities In Rs170bn Adb Road Project

On the directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the Lahore Highway Division has completed 13 major road development projects worth Rs. 5.68 billion in Raiwind and nearby areas. The initiative aims to ensure smooth traffic flow and better facilities for participants of the annual Tablighi Ijtima.

Raiwind hosts one of the largest religious congregations in the world, drawing hundreds of thousands of participants each year. To manage the influx and improve accessibility, the Punjab government accelerated road repairs and patchwork before the event.

Officials reported that 70 kilometers of roads have been upgraded under this plan, with the government achieving Rs. 600 million in savings through transparent tendering. Four major connecting routes in Raiwind were fully rehabilitated, including:

  • Sundar–Raiwind Road up to Ijtima Chowk,
  • Mian Ji Abdullah Road,
  • Sundar-to-Markaz (2 km) stretch,
  • Pajian Bypass to Bachoki Phatak (11 km), and
  • Railway Road (2.5 km) section.

Authorities confirmed that potholes were filled, shoulders dressed, and lane markings renewed, giving the city’s entry points a refreshed and organized look.

“Our goal is to provide visitors a safe and hassle-free experience during the Ijtima,” said a senior official from the Highway Division.

The road upgrades not only cater to religious visitors but also contribute to long-term urban mobility improvements for southern Lahore. Urban planners view these developments as part of CM Maryam Nawaz’s broader agenda to modernize Punjab’s road infrastructure and promote transparent public spending.