A Major Boost in Funding
The Islamic Development Bank has approved nearly half a billion dollars to help finance the Sukkur-Hyderabad M-6 Motorway. This is a big relief for the government, as the total cost of the project has now climbed to around 1.7 billion dollars.
Once built, the 306-kilometre motorway will be a six-lane, high-speed corridor designed for speeds of up to 120 km/h. It will include dozens of bridges, interchanges, and underpasses — all the ingredients of a modern highway. More importantly, it will fill the last missing link in Pakistan’s north-south motorway chain, creating a continuous route from Karachi all the way to Peshawar.
Construction Timeline
After years of shifting schedules, the authorities have now committed to a start date. Construction is expected to begin in April 2026. Before that, land acquisition will begin in Sindh, with both private and state land being transferred for the project.
For the first time in a long while, there is a sense of clarity: a proper timeline, confirmed funding, and specific steps to get the project moving.
Why It Took So Long
The M-6 story has been a bumpy one. Costs have nearly tripled since the project was first estimated in 2018. Land disputes and legal hurdles slowed things down for years, while changes in political priorities added more uncertainty. The lack of stable financing also played a big role in delaying progress.
But now, with major funding in place and the government actively coordinating with international partners, the chances of real progress look stronger than ever.
Why the M-6 Matters
The motorway isn’t just about faster travel — it’s about connectivity, trade, and development. By linking Sindh more effectively with the rest of Pakistan, it will:
Reduce travel time between Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur, and beyond.
Boost trade and logistics by giving businesses a safer, faster transport route.
Open up new opportunities for towns and communities along the corridor.
Improve road safety with a modern, well-planned design.
For the people of Sindh, especially, this project promises to bring their province closer to the national economic mainstream.
The Road Ahead
Of course, challenges remain. The government still has to line up the rest of the financing, manage land acquisition smoothly, and ensure that construction doesn’t fall into the same cycle of delays. Transparent management and consistent political will are going to be key.
But for now, optimism is back. After years of waiting, the M-6 is no longer just a promise — it’s on its way to becoming a reality.
Great to see the M-6 Motorway project finally moving forward with strong support from the Islamic Development Bank. This will bring huge benefits in terms of connectivity and development. Local people, especially in Mehrabpur, have been waiting eagerly for this work to begin. Hoping for quick and smooth execution!