ISLAMABAD — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday commended the communications ministry for improvements in the performance of the National Highway Authority (NHA), citing a significant rise in revenue, expanded use of electronic toll collection, and new safety measures on motorways and highways.

Chairing a review meeting on NHA’s performance, the prime minister praised Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan and his team for steps taken to improve toll collection, upgrade service areas and strengthen road safety systems across the country.

Officials told the meeting that NHA’s revenue increased from Rs66.8 billion in 2024 to Rs109 billion in fiscal year 2025, marking a 63% rise. According to the briefing, the increase followed improved toll tax collection and administrative measures introduced under government directives.

The prime minister described the transparent auction of toll plazas as a positive development and instructed authorities to maintain high quality standards in the repair and maintenance of motorways and national highways.

The meeting was also informed that the use of M-Tag electronic toll collection on motorways increased significantly, rising from 20% in 2024 to 81% in 2025.

Officials said compliance with axle load limits on highways and motorways had reached 90% and 95% respectively. They added that enforcement of these limits helps reduce road accidents, lowers pressure on road infrastructure and extends the lifespan of highways.

Authorities also briefed the meeting on improvements in motorway service areas and the development of new facilities along national highways to enhance travel services for motorists.

In addition, the government plans to introduce an air ambulance service on motorways later this year. Emergency assistance through Rescue 1122 is already available at motorway interchanges across the network.

The meeting was further informed that the upgradation of Lyari Expressway, Thokar Niaz Baig on N-5, and the Islamabad–Murree Expressway has been completed using NHA’s own resources.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif appreciated the efforts of the communications ministry and directed officials to ensure that ongoing infrastructure projects are completed within the planned timelines.

The meeting was attended by Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Khan Cheema, Communications Minister Abdul Aleem Khan, and other senior government officials.