The construction on Rs 8 billion mega Lowari Tunnel Project (LTP) to link Chitral district with other parts of the country would commence in May 2005.
In this connection, National Highway Authority (NHA) would float tenders in mid-December this year, Business Recorder learnt here on Wednesday.
The 8.86 kilometres long Lowari Tunnel is located at 10,500 feet above the sea level and will improve all-weather links of Chitral with rest of the country.
The NHA failed to resume the construction work that stopped in January 2004 due to the dispute with the contractor. But according to details, now NHA has completed all its preparations and tenders would be opened in mid-December.
A pre-tender visit for foreign companies was also arranged by NHA to study the formation of the mountains where the tunnel will be built. Construction work on 18 kilometres approach road from Dir to the Tunnel is also underway.
When contacted, General Manager Lowari Tunnel Project, Colonel Salman informed this scribe that various foreign contractors have been frequently visiting the site area. He said evaluation of tenders would take place in January or February and finally the contract would be signed in April.
Colonel Salman confirmed that the construction work on the tunnel would commence in May 2005, having completion period of four years.
When asked about the funding of the project, LTP GM said that it is completely government funded project however, NHA is planning to seek foreign assistance, as well.
"The government provided Rs 500 million last year while Rs 1 billion has been allocated this year," Salman added.
He was of the view that Lowari Tunnel Project would expedite economic activities in the area, as it would create many jobs for the local people, and hoped that the tunnel would provide access to Central Asian states making Pakistan a hub of economic activities.
The Prime Minister had already suggested linking the Tunnel with Tajkistan through road. There is 234 kilometres distance from Dir Khass to Tajkistan and this road can link Tajikstan with Pakistan via Wakhan.
It is pertinent to mention here that the Parliamentarians from Chitral area have time and again raised the issue on different fora.
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