KARACHI: The Chief Minister of Sindh, Murad Ali Shah, has officially announced the construction of a new bridge over the Indus River connecting Sukkur and Rohri. The project aims to significantly improve connectivity, reduce traffic congestion, and support economic activity in the region.

The announcement was made during the 51st meeting of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Policy Board, chaired by the Chief Minister. The meeting focused on approving major infrastructure initiatives across Sindh and introducing reforms to encourage greater private sector investment in development projects.

According to the spokesperson for the Chief Minister, several policy reforms were approved during the session to enhance private sector participation and streamline investment procedures. These reforms are expected to attract both local and international investors, accelerating infrastructure development in the province.

During the meeting, Murad Ali Shah emphasized the importance of modern infrastructure in driving economic growth and improving the quality of life for citizens. He highlighted that the proposed Sukkur–Rohri bridge would be a key addition to the region’s transport network.

The new bridge is planned to be approximately 1.5 kilometers long and will feature multiple lanes to accommodate increasing traffic demands. Importantly, the design will include separate pathways for heavy vehicles and pedestrians, ensuring both efficiency and safety.

Murad Ali Shah stated that the new bridge would connect Sukkur, Rohri, and surrounding areas more effectively, reducing travel time and easing pressure on existing routes. He noted that the current infrastructure is insufficient to handle the growing volume of traffic, particularly with restrictions placed on heavy vehicles.

Sindh’s Local Government Minister, Nasir Shah, provided a detailed briefing during the meeting. He explained that Sukkur and Rohri function as an integrated urban and economic corridor, making reliable connectivity between the two cities essential.

At present, the primary crossing point is the historic Lansdowne Bridge, which is supported by the Sukkur Barrage. However, the bridge has limitations, particularly regarding heavy traffic. Heavy vehicles are not permitted to use the Lansdowne Bridge, which places additional strain on alternative routes.

Nasir Shah further informed the board that due to ongoing repair work, the Sukkur Barrage will remain closed to public traffic until at least 2027. This closure has intensified the need for an additional crossing point over the Indus River.

He also pointed out that traffic congestion on the Lansdowne Bridge frequently disrupts emergency services, including ambulances and rescue operations. The lack of a modern, high-capacity bridge has become a critical issue for residents and businesses alike.

The proposed Sukkur–Rohri bridge is expected to address these challenges by providing a dedicated route for heavy traffic and reducing the burden on existing infrastructure. Officials believe that once completed, the bridge will lead to a noticeable decrease in traffic jams and travel delays.

In addition to improving transportation, the project is likely to have broader economic benefits. Enhanced connectivity can facilitate trade, improve access to markets, and support industrial growth in the region. It may also contribute to job creation during both the construction and operational phases.

The Chief Minister also approved the use of the Project Development Facility (PDF) for the bridge project. This approval marks an important step in moving the project forward, as it enables detailed planning, feasibility studies, and financial structuring.

Officials indicated that the project would likely be developed under a public-private partnership model, which allows the government to collaborate with private investors. This approach helps share financial risks and ensures efficient project execution.

Murad Ali Shah reiterated his government’s commitment to infrastructure development, stating that such projects are essential for sustainable urban growth. He stressed that the Sukkur–Rohri bridge would not only solve current transportation issues but also prepare the region for future expansion.

In conclusion, the announcement of the new Sukkur–Rohri bridge represents a significant step toward improving connectivity and infrastructure in Sindh. With increasing traffic demands and existing limitations, the project is expected to play a vital role in easing congestion, supporting economic activity, and enhancing the overall mobility of residents in the area.