In a significant directive that will affect travelers across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Federal Minister for Communications has ordered the establishment of new toll plazas on the province’s highways and motorways to enhance revenue collection, officials confirmed Friday.

The instruction was issued during a high-level meeting at the Ministry of Communications, where the National Highway Authority (NHA) presented updates on periodic works, ongoing maintenance, and outstanding financial liabilities for various projects.

The Minister has tasked the Secretary Communications with formally consulting the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including the Chief Minister and Chief Secretary, to facilitate the plan. He emphasized that the income generated from these new collection points would be reinvested directly into improving the province’s road networks, with a special focus on routes vital for tourism.

To ensure greater financial accountability, the Minister mandated that the Secretary of Communications personally inspect any project with pending liabilities exceeding Rs. 10 million before approving payments. The disbursement of funds will only proceed after a thorough physical verification of the work has been completed.

Responding to incidents of vandalism at existing toll facilities, the Minister issued a stern warning that destruction of government property is unacceptable. He directed NHA officials to pursue strict legal measures against offenders, including the filing of First Information Reports (FIRs).

Furthermore, the Minister highlighted the critical need to eliminate corruption within routine maintenance projects. He stressed that integrity must be upheld at every level, remarking, ‘It is not enough for one official to be upright while subordinates continue corrupt practices,’ to safeguard public funds.

Secretary Communications Ali Sher Mehsud and other senior officials were present at the briefing.