Introduction
In a major development for commuters and transporters across Punjab, the Government of Pakistan has announced an ambitious plan that will shorten the Lahore to Islamabad distance by approximately 100 kilometers. This transformative infrastructure project aims to significantly cut travel time between the two major cities, enhance road safety, and boost regional connectivity.
Federal Government Confirms Motorway Realignment
On July 23, 2025, Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan officially confirmed that the Lahore–Sialkot Motorway (M-11) will be extended to Kharian and then linked to Islamabad, forming an alternate high-speed route to the existing M-2 Motorway. This strategic extension will result in a 100-kilometer reduction in travel distancebetween Lahore and the federal capital.
The announcement came during a detailed briefing session at the National Highway Authority (NHA) Punjab office, where the minister directed officials to ensure high construction standards, on-time delivery, and transparent execution of all phases of the project.
The Route: From Lahore to Islamabad via Sialkot and Kharian
Currently, the M-2 Motorway spans approximately 375 kilometers between Lahore and Islamabad. The new realignment will introduce a more direct corridor via Lahore, Sialkot, Gujrat, Kharian, and Jhelum, cutting out several unnecessary diversions and bypassing congested segments of the existing route.
This new corridor will:
- Connect the Lahore–Sialkot Motorway (M-11) to Kharian
- Extend further from Kharian to Rawalpindi/Islamabad
- Serve major cities including Gujranwala, Gujrat, Jhelum, and Gujar Khan
- Reduce the distance by nearly 100 kilometers
- Save an estimated 60 minutes of travel time
This shorter route is expected to provide smoother, faster, and more efficient travel for commuters and cargo carriers alike.
Six-Lane Upgrade for Maximum Efficiency
To support the expected increase in traffic volume, Minister Aleem Khan announced that the entire stretch from Lahore to Islamabad via the new route will be expanded to six lanes. This upgrade is intended to meet international safety standards and accommodate future traffic growth.
The minister also stressed that all contractors must maintain top-tier construction quality, and any lapses in performance or delays will not be tolerated. He issued clear directives to NHA officials to personally oversee progress and ensure no compromise on materials, design, or safety.
Economic and Regional Impact of the Shorter Route
The reduction in the Lahore–Islamabad distance is expected to deliver multiple economic and social benefits:
Improved Logistics and Trade
A shorter route will directly benefit industrial zones, traders, and freight companies operating between Lahore, Islamabad, and other connected districts. Reduced fuel consumption, toll costs, and delivery times will enhance the competitiveness of local businesses.
Boost to Regional Cities
Cities like Sialkot, Gujrat, and Kharian are set to gain significantly in terms of accessibility and economic activity. Improved connectivity could lead to increased investment, tourism, and job opportunities in these growing urban centers.
Decongestion of M-2
By providing an alternative route, traffic pressure on the aging M-2 Motorway will ease considerably. This is expected to reduce maintenance costs and minimize the risk of accidents due to overcrowding and high-speed travel.
Better Emergency Response
A faster and more direct corridor also improves emergency access for ambulance services, law enforcement, and disaster response teams, particularly during peak travel seasons.
Long-Term Planning: Punjab Infrastructure Vision 2055
Minister Abdul Aleem Khan also introduced the Punjab Infrastructure Vision 2055, a comprehensive long-term roadmap that includes:
- Expansion of Lahore’s Multan Road to Ring Road
- Completion of inter-city corridors like Lahore–Sialkot–Kharian–Islamabad
- Widening of existing highways and national routes
- Beautification and development of roadside services from Hadiyara to Ring Road
Under this 30-year master plan, the Punjab government aims to position the province as a logistics and trade hub by 2055, supported by reliable and efficient transport networks.
Public Reaction and Social Buzz
The news of the distance reduction has quickly gone viral on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, with commuters and business owners expressing strong support. Many users highlighted the positive environmental impact, cost savings, and time efficiency the project will bring.
Transport unions, logistics companies, and ride-sharing platforms have also welcomed the initiative, calling it a long-overdue solution to the overburdened M-2 corridor.
Timeline and Completion Expectations
Although a formal timeline has not yet been publicly announced, sources from the NHA suggest that the Kharian-to-Islamabad portion of the route is already in the planning stage, with construction expected to begin within the next 12–18 months. The entire realigned route could become operational by 2027, subject to funding and environmental clearances.
The M-11 section between Lahore and Sialkot is already complete and in use, and work is ongoing to extend the alignment beyond Gujrat and Kharian. Once fully integrated, it will serve as a complete expressway alternative to M-2.
Conclusion
The government’s announcement that the distance between Lahore and Islamabad will reduce by 100 kilometersmarks a major milestone in Pakistan’s transport development strategy. With improved routes, faster travel, and a vision for future infrastructure, the new Lahore–Sialkot–Kharian–Islamabad corridor promises to change how people and goods move across Punjab.
If executed on time and to high standards, this project will not only ease travel but also contribute significantly to Pakistan’s economic growth. Citizens now await more detailed updates on construction timelines and route maps, as the vision for a shorter, faster, and safer journey from Lahore to Islamabad inches closer to reality.
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