The Lahore-Islamabad Motorway is scheduled to undergo a massive overhaul, which is expected to cut the travel time between the two cities by about 100 kilometers, according to a major infrastructure announcement. A motorway extension from Sialkot to Kharian and then to Islamabad is part of this ambitious plan, which is led by Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan. It provides a quicker and more effective route.
The project involves widening the existing Lahore-Sialkot Motorway from four to six lanes and extending its reach to connect directly with Islamabad through Kharian. According to officials, this development is designed to reduce congestion on the traditional Lahore-Islamabad Motorway (M-2) and cut journey times by nearly one hour.
There is more to this motorway extension than merely passenger convenience. Moreover, it is a calculated action to increase regional connectedness. Gujranwala, Gujrat, Kharian, Jhelum, and Gujar Khan are significant districts that are anticipated to gain a great deal from this new infrastructure. Greater economic growth and improved passenger and cargo logistical efficiency will result from easier connectivity to key cities.
At a high-level meeting at the Punjab Region Office of the National Highway Authority (NHA), the announcement was made. High construction standards and on-time project delivery were stressed by Minister Abdul Aleem Khan. He made it clear that there will be no tolerance for delays or poor-quality work on the Lahore-Islamabad Motorway project.
Another significant focus of the meeting was the Multan Road to Ring Road corridor. The Minister ordered fast-tracking the remaining work to avoid further inconvenience to commuters and businesses. He also directed the development of a long-term 30-year infrastructure plan to meet the evolving needs of the region.
The CEO of RUDA, the Chairman of the NHA, and the Federal Secretary for Communications were in attendance. They gave thorough briefings on Punjab’s ongoing infrastructure projects, such as road construction and future projects aimed at promoting urbanization and intercity transport.
The motorway extension project reflects the government’s broader vision to upgrade national transportation networks. With shorter distances, faster travel, and improved access across regions, this initiative is set to enhance overall mobility in Pakistan.
For daily commuters, businesses, and logistics firms, the expanded Lahore-Islamabad Motorway could be a game-changer—cutting costs, saving time, and opening new economic opportunities. As construction progresses, stakeholders will be keeping a close eye on execution quality and deadlines, ensuring this transformative plan delivers real value.
