FLASHNEWS:

National Highway Authority Doubles Annual Revenue to PKR 110 Billion

Islamabad: The National Highway Authority (NHA) has achieved a record-setting increase in annual revenue, reporting a 100% surge to reach PKR 110 billion, up from PKR 64 billion last year. This significant financial growth, driven primarily by toll collections, marks a historic milestone for the government organization.

According to Zameen.Com, the substantial revenue growth, particularly from toll plaza collections which doubled to PKR 64 billion, was highlighted by Abdul Aleem Khan, Federal Minister for Communications, Privatization, and Board of Investment, during a high-level meeting at the NHA Headquarters. The meeting included a review of operations at the National Traffic Operation Centre where the minister emphasized enhancing traffic management systems.

During his visit, Minister Khan explored the NHA’s advanced traffic monitoring and control systems and mandated daily revenue collection reports. He expressed satisfaction with the 99% adoption rate of the M-Tag system on the Lahore-Sialkot Motorway and directed the implementation of camera-based monitoring for license plates and vehicle sides to provide real-time data to the Secretary of Communications and the NHA Chairperson.

Additionally, the minister discussed the importance of public awareness regarding the benefits of the M-Tag system, such as reduced travel times and improved security. A comprehensive public awareness campaign is scheduled to roll out over the next two weeks. Khan also advocated for increased automation within the traffic management system to boost efficiency and address current challenges.

Reflecting on the NHA’s financial performance, Khan praised the authority's steps towards financial independence and proposed bonuses and rewards for employees in recognition of their contributions to this unprecedented growth.

Furthering Saudi Investment Initiatives

In a separate development, Minister Khan conducted a follow-up meeting with Saudi officials to discuss advancing joint investment projects, building on recent collaborative efforts following a visit by a Saudi delegation to Pakistan. The meeting, conducted via video link with Saudi Assistant Minister of Investment Ibrahim Al-Mubarak, focused on strategies to enhance investment relations between the two nations.

Saudi officials extended an invitation to Minister Khan to attend an upcoming investment expo in Saudi Arabia, scheduled for November 25-26. Both parties agreed to maintain regular communication to ensure steady progress on joint investment objectives. Pakistan’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Ahmed Farooq, and senior officials from Pakistan’s commerce and privatization ministries also participated, providing insights on investment priorities.

These developments underscore a period of significant economic activity and international cooperation for Pakistan, reflecting both domestic achievements and strategic international partnerships.