MULTAN:The dual carriageway on Multan-Vehari Road has been completed while finishing and ancillary works at various locations are underway, Commissioner Amir Karim Khan said. During a review of construction progress, the Commissioner directed the concerned departments to complete all remaining works within the stipulated timelines and ensure the quality, safety and aesthetic appeal of the newly constructed road.
He also directed the highways department to improve carpeting and finishing at U-turns beyond Garha More and strengthen their edges through proper concrete work to prevent damage caused by traffic movement.
Taking notice of illegal cuts in the central median at seven locations in Multan, the commissioner ordered legal action against those responsible and directed the authorities to expedite proceedings against people involved in repeatedly breaking the median. He also instructed the Highways Department to provide copies of FIRs registered over illegal median cuts to the relevant authorities.
The assistant commissioners were directed to visit the affected locations and prepare dedicated routes for inspecting the median twice a week. The Commissioner also ordered an awareness campaign through banners, public announcements and social media to discourage illegal cuts. He further directed the identification of unauthorised sloping access routes across drains and action against violators under the relevant rules.
He ordered the removal of old construction debris and concrete pieces from the roadside and stressed better coordination among the Highways Department, district administration and police to protect the road infrastructure and ensure safe travelling facilities.
According to Superintending Engineer Highways Ghulam Nabi, major works, including shoulders, green belts, earthwork and road furniture, have been completed along the 25.80-kilometre section in Multan. The remaining work on tough pavers and drains will be completed by November 5.
In Khanewal, the remaining work on tough pavers and drains along a six-kilometre section is expected to be completed by October 31.
In Vehari, finishing and other supporting works are underway along the 61.30-kilometre section. Most major works have been completed, while tough pavers, drains, road furniture and U-turn finishing are still in progress.
Drain construction is underway at Mailsi Chowk, Toba Sultanpur, Abdullahabad, Jamilabad, 22 Kothi, Garha More, Chakrala and Thingi. Tough pavers are also being installed at Vehari, Pir Murad and Garha More, Ghulam Nabi added.