Pakistan’s motorways are set for a major transformation as the federal government moves towards modernizing the country’s highway system.
Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan has directed the National Highway Authority (NHA) to remove traditional toll barriers and adopt international standards of digital tolling and traffic management.
AI to Redefine Road Safety
At a high-level meeting held at the NHA headquarters, the minister announced that Artificial Intelligence–based monitoring systems will be introduced initially on the M-1 (Peshawar–Islamabad) and M-2 (Islamabad–Lahore) motorways.
These smart systems will enable computerized surveillance and automatically send text alerts to vehicle owners for violations such as overspeeding or reckless driving.
The minister pointed out that the traditional practice of motorway police physically stepping in front of speeding vehicles is dangerous and outdated.
“Technology should take over enforcement,” he emphasized, noting that safety, efficiency, and modern management must now define Pakistan’s highways.
Read more: NHA to introduce helicopter service for rescue of accident victims on motorways
Transparent Revenue and Tolling Reforms
A significant portion of the meeting focused on improving the transparency of toll collection and contracting. The minister directed that toll plaza auctions be conducted fairly and without irregularities.
He stressed that commercial activities along highways must follow a uniform digital policy, ensuring that all revenue collection is documented, traceable, and free from corruption.
He also encouraged the NHA to actively seek feedback from the public, arguing that motorists are the best judges of what services need improvement. “People’s voices should shape reforms,” he added.
Land Use and Environmental Focus
On the question of land use along highways, Aleem Khan instructed the NHA to set reasonable NOC (No Objection Certificate) fees for businesses, tailored to the size of the city and type of enterprise. This, he explained, would create a fairer system while also producing steady revenue for the state.
Environmental responsibility was also a central theme. The minister has given some of the instructions that tree plantation along motorways be expanded on a large scale. To ensure sustainability, he suggested involving private firms in the
- Planting
- Maintenance
- Long-term preservation of green belts
The aim, he said, is not only to make the highways beautiful but also to help Pakistan meet its climate resilience goals.
A Step Towards Modernization
If these reforms are implemented, then Pakistan’s motorways could soon resemble international expressways where digital tolling, AI-driven monitoring and green initiatives replace outdated practices.
If executed effectively, the move will not only improve safety and convenience for millions of travelers but also bring much-required transparency and innovation to Pakistan’s highway system.