The KP Govt has approved the construction of the 29-kilometre Dir Motorway under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The project will connect Chakdara Interchange with Baroon in Lower Dir and is estimated to cost Rs. 69 billion.
The decision was made during a meeting of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Public-Private Partnership Committee. Chief Minister Sohail Afridi chaired the meeting, where committee members formally approved the motorway project.
According to a statement issued by the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, the KP Govt has directed the relevant departments to immediately begin the land acquisition process. Officials have also been instructed to complete all necessary preparations without delay.
The chief minister asked the concerned authorities to prepare clear implementation timelines for the project. He stressed that construction should move forward according to schedule so the motorway can be opened to the public as early as possible.
The KP Govt also plans to improve the existing Public-Private Partnership framework. Chief Minister Afridi directed officials to propose amendments that would speed up the execution of development projects and reduce delays under the PPP model.
Speaking during the meeting, the chief minister described the Dir Motorway as a major development initiative for the people of the Malakand division. He said the project reflects the provincial government’s commitment to improving road infrastructure and regional connectivity.
Once completed, the motorway is expected to significantly reduce travel time between key areas. Officials believe it will also lower fuel consumption and transportation costs for commuters and businesses.
The improved road network is expected to support economic growth across the region. Easier transportation will help businesses move goods more efficiently while improving access to markets and services.
The chief minister also highlighted the tourism benefits of the project. Better road connectivity will make it easier for visitors to reach remote tourist destinations across Malakand. This is expected to increase tourist activity and support local businesses.
Officials believe the motorway will also create new employment opportunities during both the construction and operational phases. The project is expected to contribute to the long-term socioeconomic development of Lower Dir and surrounding areas.
During the meeting, the committee also reviewed the progress of other major infrastructure schemes. These included the Peshawar–Dera Ismail Khan Motorway and Swat Motorway Phase II.
The chief minister directed the relevant departments to ensure both projects remain on schedule. He emphasized the importance of timely completion to maximize public benefits and improve transportation across the province.
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The approval of the Dir Motorway marks another major infrastructure initiative by the KP Govt. Officials expect the project to strengthen regional connectivity, encourage tourism, create jobs, and support economic development throughout the Malakand division.
