After weeks of closure due to severe flood damage, the Sukkur–Multan Motorway (M-5) has finally reopened to traffic, marking a significant relief for commuters and transporters traveling between southern Punjab and Sindh. The National Highway and Motorway Police (NH&MP) confirmed the reopening on Thursday, assuring that safety measures and diversions are in place.
The motorway was closed on September 17 following destructive floods from the Sutlej River, which submerged key areas of Jalalpur Pirwala, Lodhran, and Uch Sharif. A four-kilometre stretch of the road suffered major damage, forcing authorities to shut down a 14-kilometre section for repairs and safety inspections.
According to NH&MP, repair and rehabilitation work on the damaged section has been completed, with a temporary four-kilometre diversion now allowing traffic movement for all vehicles.
“Motorists are advised to follow diversion signs and drive cautiously, especially along the repaired sections,” said an NHA spokesperson, adding that full restoration work is continuing to ensure long-term road stability.
The National Highway Authority (NHA) has also directed maintenance teams to remain on-site for monitoring and safety support as the route fully reopens.
Authorities noted that additional strengthening and resurfacing work is planned in the coming weeks to permanently restore the motorway to its original condition. The reopening is expected to revive trade and travel between Sindh and Punjab, offering much-needed relief to transporters and commuters after a month-long disruption.