Khairuddin Shadani | Chitral Today
CHITRAL, Jan 12, 2026: The National Highway Authority (NHA) has formally issued Letters of Award for the construction of Garam Chashma Road.
According to documents, the NHA has awarded the contract for improvement of the existing road on National Highway N-145 to M/s Pasban Constructors at a cost of approximately Rs219.5 million. The project received approval during the 477th meeting of the NHA Executive Board. In addition, the construction contract for the Broze Bridge on National Highway N-45 has also been issued, with an estimated cost of Rs165.3 million.
The Letters of Award were issued by the Director (Coordination) of NHA Peshawar and copies have been circulated to senior NHA officials as well as the Chitral office. These documents serve as concrete evidence that both projects have successfully completed the tendering, approval and contracting stages.
Recent claims by a PTI Member of the Provincial Assembly suggesting that no work was taking place on the Garam Chashma Road contradict official records and on-ground realities. Such statements are being viewed as misleading and an attempt to politicize a crucial public infrastructure project, creating unnecessary confusion among the public.
In contrast, substantial work was carried out on the Garam Chashma Road during the previous year, visible evidence of which exists at the site. The issuance of new Letters of Award further indicates that additional development work is now set to commence formally.
NHA officials stated that initial activities will include water-bound macadam and other preparatory works, followed by full asphalt surfacing and carpeting in later stages.
The progress on the Garam Chashma and Lotkoh road projects highlights the availability of federal funding through the NHA and reflects steady advancement on the ground. Stakeholders have emphasized the importance of keeping such vital projects free from political controversy to ensure improved connectivity, travel safety, and better living conditions for the people of Chitral.
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