A growing dispute between Sindh and Punjab has emerged over the reclassification of national highways as motorways, resulting in increased toll taxes. Senator Muhammad Aslam Abro of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has strongly opposed the move, arguing that it unfairly raises toll charges, particularly affecting Sindh.
The controversy has intensified as Sindh’s Chief Minister, National Assembly members, and PPP senators have collectively voiced their objections. Senator Abro condemned the toll hikes and announced that residents of Jacobabad would soon hold protests to express their discontent.
Highlighting the massive revenue collected through motorway tolls, Abro alleged that billions of rupees are being generated while Sindh remains deprived of essential infrastructure. He pointed out that despite Sindh’s significant contribution to national revenue, its roads are in poor condition, while Punjab continues to expand its motorway network. He accused the authorities of prioritizing Punjab’s development at the expense of Sindh and Balochistan.
Abro further alleged financial mismanagement, claiming that large sums are being embezzled under the pretense of toll tax collection. He also revealed that during a discussion with Punjab’s Minister for Communication and Works, the idea of incorporating these motorways into the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was suggested.
The senator criticized the deteriorating state of roads in Sindh, particularly the highways connecting Kashmore, Sehwan, and Hyderabad. He underscored the stark contrast in infrastructure development between Sindh and Punjab, arguing that such disparities fuel regional grievances.
