Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province

Abbotabad : ReNews Pakistan
The district administration in Havelian has reclaimed more than four kanals of expensive government land during a large-scale anti encroachment operation aimed at removing illegal structures from public property.
The operation was conducted under the supervision of Additional Assistant Commissioner-II Muhammad Osama Khan on the directives of Deputy Commissioner Abbottabad. The action targeted encroachments established on land owned by the Tehsil Municipal Administration (TMA) adjacent to the Rescue 1122 building in Havelian.
During the operation, enforcement teams demolished four illegally constructed shops and removed a hand pump that had been installed on the occupied land. Following the clearance operation, possession of the land was formally restored to the TMA.
Officials from the relevant government departments remained present throughout the operation to oversee the demolition and ensure that the process was completed peacefully and in accordance with administrative procedures. No major law and order situation was reported during the drive.
The district administration reiterated its commitment to protecting public assets and preventing the unlawful occupation of government land. Officials stated that anti-encroachment operations would continue across the district and that strict action would be taken against illegal occupants without discrimination.
Authorities added that reclaiming public land is essential for preserving government property, improving civic management, and ensuring that land reserved for public use remains available for future development and community services.

Dir: [ReNews Pakistan]
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has granted in principle approval for the construction of the 29 kilometre Dir Motorway and directed the relevant authorities to immediately begin the land acquisition process, marking a significant step toward improving transport infrastructure in the province.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the Provincial Public Private Partnership (PPP) Committee chaired by Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi at the Chief Minister’s House in Peshawar. The committee approved the project under the Public Private Partnership model and instructed all concerned departments to expedite preparatory work to ensure timely implementation.
The proposed motorway will extend from Chakdara Interchange to Baroon in Lower Dir district at an estimated cost of Rs69 billion. Provincial authorities believe the project will become a major transport corridor, improving connectivity between Lower Dir and the wider Malakand Division while supporting long term regional development.
Chief Minister Afridi directed the concerned departments to launch the land acquisition process without delay, establish clear implementation timelines and ensure the project is completed within the stipulated period. He also instructed officials to closely monitor progress so that administrative and technical hurdles do not delay construction.
During the meeting, the chief minister further directed the relevant departments to prepare recommendations for amendments to the existing Public Private Partnership framework. The proposed reforms are aimed at simplifying approval procedures, reducing implementation timelines and accelerating the execution of major development projects across the province.
According to the provincial government, the Dir Motorway is expected to significantly reduce travel time, improve the safe and efficient movement of people and goods, and strengthen road connectivity throughout the region. Officials said the improved transport network would enhance access to key commercial centres and remote areas, making travel more convenient for residents and businesses alike.
The government also expects the motorway to unlock the tourism potential of Malakand Division by providing easier access to the region’s scenic valleys and popular tourist destinations. Officials believe the project will encourage private investment, generate employment during both construction and operation, stimulate local businesses and contribute to the long term socio economic development of Lower Dir and surrounding districts.

Peshawar | ReNews Pakistan
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Public Private Partnership Committee has approved the construction of the 29 kilometre Dir Motorway, a major road infrastructure project aimed at improving connectivity between Chakdara and Lower Dir.
The proposed motorway will connect Chakdara Interchange with Baroon in Lower Dir district and is estimated to cost approximately Rs 69 billion.
The project was approved during a meeting of the PPP Committee chaired by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi. Following the approval, the committee directed the relevant departments to begin the land acquisition process without delay.
According to a statement issued by the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, the provincial government has also instructed the concerned authorities to prepare clear and time-bound implementation schedules to ensure that construction is completed on schedule and the motorway is opened to traffic as early as possible.
The chief minister further directed officials to propose amendments to the existing Public-Private Partnership framework to accelerate the execution of development schemes and reduce procedural and implementation delays.
Afridi described the Dir Motorway as an important development initiative for the people of Malakand division. He said the project would significantly reduce travel time, fuel consumption and transportation expenses for residents and businesses operating in the region.
The motorway is also expected to improve the movement of goods and passengers, strengthen commercial activity and provide better access to markets, educational institutions and healthcare facilities.
According to the provincial government, improved road connectivity will also help promote tourism across Malakand division by making remote and scenic destinations more accessible to domestic and international visitors.
The project is expected to generate new employment opportunities during both the construction and operational phases, while also supporting local businesses and the broader socioeconomic development of Lower Dir and adjoining districts.
During the meeting, the PPP Committee also reviewed progress on two other major road projects, including the Peshawar/Dera Ismail Khan Motorway and Swat Motorway Phase II.
Officials were directed to address outstanding issues and take all necessary measures to ensure the timely completion of these projects.