Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan on Saturday directed the National Highway Authority (NHA) to accelerate the pace of development projects by overhauling the existing system and conducting biannual reviews of its terms and conditions.

During a high-level meeting held at the NHA headquarters, the minister conducted a detailed review of both ongoing and proposed infrastructure projects.

Stressing the need for improved efficiency, Mr Khan said that a fundamental change in the authority’s operational framework was crucial for tangible progress in the country’s road infrastructure.

“The NHA must review its terms and conditions every six months to ensure timely evaluation and course correction,” the minister said. He also emphasized the importance of a clear and structured presentation of projects to aid in monitoring and execution.

Particular focus was given to the long-delayed N-25 highway project, with Mr Khan instructing authorities to prioritise its early completion. The N-25, which connects Karachi to Chaman via Quetta, serves as a critical route in the country’s western corridor and is seen as vital for economic integration and regional connectivity.

The meeting also reviewed development projects underway in the western sector, as well as in Sindh and Balochistan. Mr Khan highlighted the strategic importance of these regions and called for faster implementation to address longstanding infrastructure gaps.

In a bid to enhance the public image and operational transparency of the NHA, the minister directed the outsourcing of its marketing and image-building functions to professional firms. He further instructed that expert horticulture firms be hired for the beautification of highways and adjacent areas.

“The development process demands not only speed but quality and aesthetics. A reformed and responsive system will lead to better outcomes,” Mr Khan noted.

The federal secretary for communications and the chairman of the NHA have been tasked with implementing the directives and ensuring compliance within set timelines.