The consultants of Japan International Co-operative Agency (Jica) have arrived here for re-designing of over 100-km-long hilly highway from Karachi to Quetta. Jica Representative Kondo stated this while addressing a ceremony at the Kohat Pak-Japan Friendship Tunnel. Japan Embassy's Economic and Development In-charge Katsu said this tunnel is a unique gift from Japan to Pakistan on eve of 50th anniversary of Pak-Japan economic and diplomatic friendship.
He said the Japanese government has almost finalised lifting ban on Pakistan's assistance programme, which was suspended few years back after May 28 nuclear tests.
Addressing the gathering, NHA Chairman Major General Farrukh Javed has said the government is planning to construct another tunnel parallel to Kohat Tunnel. He, however, said the project is in pipeline that would be materialised during the next years' Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP).
The NHA chief also said: "We have the potential to construct the tunnel in less time and less expenses. The decision to have another tunnel in the same area was taken to have access to the area in case of mishap in Kohat Tunnel.
He said that new route has enabled the passage of large vehicles, alleviated traffic congestion, improved traffic safety, and reduced mileage and travel time of the commuters.
Naseem Khattak, chief operating officer, Kohat Tunnel project, said that monthly revenue collection through the tunnel has crossed Rs 10 million, which shows people's confidence in the NHA.