SAHIWAL: In a major move to revolutionize the region’s infrastructure, the Punjab government has announced the launch of three mega road projects in the Sahiwal Division. These projects aim to convert critical inter-district routes into dual carriageways, significantly improving travel facilities and boosting economic connectivity.
Key Road Projects and Upgrades
The infrastructure overhaul focuses on three high-traffic routes that connect Sahiwal with neighboring districts. The roads slated for dualization are:
Sahiwal–Samundri Road
Okara–Depalpur Road
Vehari–Depalpur Road (connecting via Burewala, Arifwala, and Pakpattan)
These projects are part of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s vision to modernize the provincial road network, ensuring safer and faster transit for commuters and goods.
Budget Allocation and Development Plan
All three projects have been formally included in the Annual Development Budget for the Fiscal Year 2025–26. The government has already allocated substantial funds to kickstart the preliminary phases, which include land acquisition and the relocation of utility services (electricity, gas, and water lines).
Director Development & Planning, Shafiq Ahmed Dogar, provided a breakdown of the initial funding:
| Project Name | Allocated Budget (PKR) |
| Sahiwal–Samundri Road | 1.2348 Billion |
| Okara–Depalpur Road | 2.8 Billion |
| Vehari–Depalpur Road | 2.5 Billion |
Strategic Importance
The conversion of these roads into dual carriageways is expected to reduce traffic congestion and decrease the rate of accidents on these busy routes. By allocating funds specifically for land acquisition and utility relocation, the government aims to ensure that the actual construction work proceeds without delays.
Local residents and the business community have welcomed the news, noting that better connectivity with Samundri, Okara, and Vehari will provide a significant boost to local trade and agriculture.