Work on Leh Expressway, Rawalpindi to start soon

Rawalpindi:         The Government has finalised arrangements to launch Leh Expressway as soon as possible. While talking to media, Minister for Railways Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed said that due to the negligence of previous governments, the cost of the project has soared to PKR 70 billion from PKR 17 billion. He added that the project would be constructed on a build, operate and transfer basis.

The expressway would start from Soan Bridge in Chaklala to facilitate the commute of a maximum number of residents of the twin cities. Moreover, investors would be urged to develop commercial real estate projects along the road. The minister ensured that the authorities have already devised a viable plan to prevent flooding in the Leh Nullah and avoid any unanticipated disruption. As many as three sewage treatment plants would be installed to treat grey water that could be used in parks, greenbelts and for other purposes.

At the same time, the minister has urged the citizens of the low-laying areas to avoid disposing their garbage or waste into the Nullah as it causes severe blockages. Instead, they should cooperate with the city’s sanitation department for keeping the nullah clean, especially during the monsoon season.

While commenting upon the preparedness for the imminent monsoon, he said that all departments including WASA, provincial authorities, police, 1122, and Pak Army have finalised plans to cope with flooding and any subsequent untoward situation. To resolve the issue of Leh Nullah on permanent basis, he added that feasibility study and PC-I of Leh Expressway Project have been completed for further perusal.

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