KARACHI – The Senate Standing Committee on Communications has raised concerns over alleged motorway toll corruption in Pakistan, particularly regarding toll collection in Sindh and the continuation of officials on extended deputation postings.
The committee, chaired by Senator Pervaiz Rashid, reviewed issues related to the National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP), including disciplinary action against officers, outsourcing of toll collection and administrative matters.
Officials told the committee that the motorway police follows a zero-tolerance policy against corruption and has taken action against officers involved in misconduct.
178 Motorway Police Officers Face Action In Sindh
During the committee meeting, officials informed lawmakers that disciplinary proceedings had been initiated against 178 officers in Sindh.
The officials said the National Highways and Motorway Police has mechanisms in place to monitor misconduct and ensure accountability within the department.
The committee was informed about steps taken against officers accused of violating rules, although details of individual cases were not disclosed during the meeting.
Senators Question Long-Term Deputation Postings
Senator Saifullah Abro raised concerns over the continued presence of officials who have completed their deputation periods.
According to the committee discussion, 331 officials had already completed their deputation tenure.
Abro questioned why some officials were still serving on deputation despite regulations limiting such postings.
He said officials should not remain on deputation beyond the permitted period and sought clarification from relevant authorities.
Concerns Over Sindh Toll Collection Outsourcing
The committee also discussed the outsourcing of toll collection operations in Sindh.
Senator Saifullah Abro raised concerns over the involvement of private companies in toll collection and alleged that corruption issues existed within the system.
The committee directed officials to examine the matter and ensure transparency in motorway toll operations.
Authorities were asked to address concerns regarding revenue collection, monitoring systems and accountability mechanisms.
Retired Official Case Discussed In Senate Meeting
The committee also reviewed the case of an individual who retired in July 2025 but continued serving.
Officials informed lawmakers that the matter involved a dispute regarding the person’s date of birth.
They said the individual had obtained a court stay order, which allowed him to continue with the legal process.
However, Senator Abro stated that a High Court inquiry committee had already recommended action in the matter.
The committee sought further clarification from authorities regarding the status of the case.
Naigaj Dam Cost Increase Raises Questions
Apart from motorway-related matters, the committee also reviewed progress on the Naigaj Dam project.
Senator Saifullah Abro highlighted concerns over a significant increase in the project’s estimated cost.
He said the initial cost of the project was around Rs12 billion, which later increased to Rs45 billion and eventually reached approximately Rs85 billion.
The committee discussed the reasons behind the cost escalation and asked authorities to provide details regarding the project’s financial management.
Committee Orders Action On Key Concerns
The Senate Standing Committee on Communications directed relevant authorities to address concerns related to toll collection, alleged corruption and extended deputation postings.
Officials assured the committee that complaints and allegations would be examined according to government procedures.
The meeting highlighted broader concerns about transparency and accountability in Pakistan’s motorway administration system.
The issue of motorway toll corruption in Pakistan remains under scrutiny as lawmakers continue reviewing the management of highways, toll operations and administrative appointments.
Key Points :
- Senate Standing Committee on Communications raised concerns over alleged motorway toll corruption in Pakistan.
- The committee discussed toll collection issues in Sindh.
- NHMP officials said disciplinary action was taken against 178 officers in Sindh.
- Senator Saifullah Abro questioned prolonged deputation postings involving officials.
- The committee was informed that 331 officials had completed their deputation periods.
- Concerns were raised over outsourcing of toll collection to private companies.
- A case involving a retired official continuing service was also reviewed.
- Lawmakers questioned the increase in Naigaj Dam’s estimated cost from Rs12 billion to Rs85 billion.
- Authorities were directed to address concerns regarding transparency and accountability.
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