Islamabad (HRNW)-\u00a0Concerns were raised during a meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Communications after it was revealed that one individual had allegedly formed multiple companies and secured contracts for several toll plazas across the country.<\/p>\n
The committee meeting, chaired by Syed Hafeezuddin, also expressed dissatisfaction over delays in the completion of development projects.<\/p>\n
Officials of the National Highway Authority (NHA) informed the committee that projects are often delayed due to a shortage of funds. They said timely financing would enable projects to be completed within the prescribed timeframe, adding that project budgets are released in installments rather than as lump-sum payments.<\/p>\n
The officials further stated that 109 toll plazas have been established nationwide. Tender contracts have been awarded for 90 toll plazas, with 10 toll plazas assigned to the National Logistics Cell (NLC) and the remainder operated by private companies.<\/p>\n
During the meeting, the committee convener alleged that a single individual had created several companies and obtained contracts for multiple toll plazas, adding that the matter had previously been reported in the media and was commonly discussed in Sindh.<\/p>\n
The Standing Committee directed officials to present the tender documents related to toll plaza contracts at its next meeting and also summoned the Chairman of the NHA and the Secretary Communications.<\/p>\n
The committee warned that if the Chairman and Secretary failed to attend the next meeting, it would consider moving a privilege motion against them.<\/p>\n
The committee also sought detailed information regarding the M-9 Sukkur\u2013Hyderabad Motorway project and Port Qasim.<\/p>\n
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