ISLAMABAD, Aug. 4: Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan paid tribute to the nation’s police martyrs while highlighting significant progress in Pakistan’s road infrastructure and motorway network during a ceremony marking Youm-e-Shuhada-e-Police (Police Martyrs’ Day) at the Motorway Police Headquarters Auditorium.
The event was attended by Inspector General (IG) National Highways and Motorway Police Sultan Ahmad Chaudhry, senior officials, and families of the martyrs. Upon arrival, the Federal Minister and the IG laid floral wreaths at the Yadgar-e-Shuhada (Martyrs’ Memorial) and offered Fateha in remembrance of the fallen officers who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.
Addressing the ceremony, Abdul Aleem Khan described August 4 as a significant day in Pakistan’s history, paying homage to all police martyrs. He said the sacrifice of Shaheed Safwat Ghayoor continues to inspire law enforcement agencies, adding that the bravery of all martyrs, including 59 officers of the Motorway Police, will always be remembered. He praised the Motorway Police as a model institution known for its professionalism and public service.
To enhance the safety and welfare of patrolling officers, the Minister announced the establishment of modern police stations, dedicated parking facilities, and emergency ambulance services near toll plazas across the motorway network.
Highlighting the National Highway Authority’s (NHA) financial performance, Abdul Aleem Khan said the authority’s revenue has increased from Rs66 billion in 2024 to more than Rs127 billion in 2026, enabling it to finance infrastructure projects through domestic resources without relying on external funding.
The Minister outlined several key infrastructure projects underway across the country. He said the extension of the Murree Expressway (IMDC) to Muzaffarabad will improve regional connectivity and provide world-class travel facilities. The proposed MNJC Motorway will offer an alternative route to the Karakoram Highway, strengthening strategic links with China.
He added that the Sialkot-Kharian-Rawalpindi Highway will reduce the travel distance between Islamabad and Lahore by approximately 100 kilometres, saving commuters more than an hour of travel time. In Karachi, the M-10 Motorway and Lyari Expressway continue to facilitate freight movement from Karachi Port, while construction work on the M-6 Motorway is expected to begin soon.
Abdul Aleem Khan also noted that work is progressing on the Guru Nanak Expressway connecting Kartarpur and Nankana Sahib to promote religious tourism and facilitate Sikh pilgrims from around the world. He said development is advancing on tourism routes in Gilgit, the N-25 Highway is targeted for completion next year, and M-8 Motorway projects in Balochistan will enhance regional connectivity and boost cross-border trade with Iran.
Speaking on the occasion, IG Motorway Police Sultan Ahmad Chaudhry paid tribute to the sacrifices of police martyrs and reaffirmed the department’s commitment to supporting their families. He said the Motorway Police would continue to stand by the families of the fallen officers and ensure they receive the respect and assistance they deserve.
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