National Assembly Passes National Highway Authority (Amendment) Act 2024
By Muhammad MubashirPublished On 24 Jan 2026
National Assembly Passes National Highway Authority (Amendment) Act 2024
What Is This Bill About?
Pakistan’s National Assembly has approved amendments to the National Highway Authority (NHA) Act 1991, updating how Pakistan’s highways, motorways, and strategic roads are managed and governed.
The goal is to modernize NHA operations and align them with the State-Owned Enterprises (SOE) governance system.
What Changes Under the New Law?
✅ 1. Modern Governance System for NHA
The amendment brings NHA under the State-Owned Enterprises Act 2023, introducing modern corporate management rules and stronger oversight.
✅ 2. Creation of National Highway Council
A new National Highway Council will act like a governing board to:
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Set policies
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Approve development plans
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Monitor road projects and budgets
Independent experts from the private sector will also be included for better decision-making.
✅ 3. CEO-Led Management
The Authority will now be run by a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) appointed on a performance-based contract instead of the old administrative structure.
✅ 4. Focus on Highways, Motorways & Strategic Roads
The law clearly defines:
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National highways
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Motorways
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Strategic roads important for connectivity and defense
✅ 5. Better Planning & Project Approval
The Council and Executive Board will:
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Approve 5-year development plans
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Monitor maintenance of roads
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Oversee contracts and infrastructure spending
Why Was This Amendment Needed?
According to the Statement of Objects and Reasons (page 8), the amendment was required to align NHA with modern governance laws and ensure smoother functioning of Pakistan’s national road authority.
Why This Matters for Youth
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Better highways and motorway infrastructure
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Improved transport and travel safety
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More development and job opportunities in infrastructure sector
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Faster national connectivity and economic growth
Simple Summary
Pakistan updated laws governing the National Highway Authority.
A new council and CEO-based system will manage highways and motorway projects.
The goal is better planning, transparency, and modern road infrastructure.
