By Abdul Ghani

The multibillion-rupee Karachi-Bela section of the N-25 highway is progressing towards its scheduled completion in December 2027.

This is part of the Pakistan Expressway project, supported by an overall allocation of Rs100 billion in the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) 2026-27, according to a document available with Wealth Pakistan.

The document states that the construction work between Karachi and Bela has been divided into three sections, with a combined reported cost of Rs98.8 billion. The 13.3-kilometre Hub Bypass, costing Rs15.4 billion, has recorded 1.2 percent physical progress.

Similarly, the 100-kilometre Karachi-Uthal section, involving an estimated expenditure of Rs47.8 billion, has recorded 19.3 percent progress.

The 70.7-kilometre Uthal-Bela section, costing Rs35.6 billion, has achieved 21.4 percent progress.

Collectively, the three sections cover approximately 184 kilometres, forming an important road corridor connecting Karachi with Balochistan and supporting regional mobility, trade and economic activity.

The document identifies December 2027 as the anticipated completion date, providing a clear timeline for the delivery of this strategically important infrastructure project.

With substantial funding allocated and work underway across all three sections, the project is expected to strengthen road connectivity and improve access between Karachi, Hub, Uthal and Bela.

The Karachi-Bela corridor is also positioned to support smoother movement of passengers and goods while contributing to the broader development of Balochistan.

The project’s phased execution allows construction activities to continue across multiple sections, with further progress expected as implementation advances toward the December 2027 target.

The Karachi-Bela project represents a major investment in Pakistan’s road infrastructure and is expected to enhance connectivity between Sindh and Balochistan.

The corridor will provide a more efficient route for commuters, businesses and freight operators, helping facilitate commercial activity and improving access to key urban and industrial centres.

The allocation of nearly Rs100 billion reflects the project’s strategic importance and the government’s focus on expanding modern transport infrastructure.

As construction progresses, the completed sections are expected to deliver long-term benefits for communities along the route and contribute to regional economic integration.

Credit: INP-WealthPk