The National Highway Authority (NHA) in Pakistan is facing a significant challenge: decreasing toll tax collection rates. According to NHA Chairman Arshad Majeed Mohmand, the authority is currently only able to collect 13% of the estimated toll revenue from its highways.
This shortfall is a major concern for the government, as toll taxes are a crucial source of funding for infrastructure development and maintenance.
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To address this issue, the NHA is exploring various strategies. One approach is to refine existing processes and improve the efficiency of toll collection operations. This could involve upgrading technology, streamlining procedures, and increasing staff training.
Additionally, the NHA is considering outsourcing toll collection to private sector operators. This could potentially lead to increased revenue through better management and marketing practices
However, outsourcing toll collection also raises concerns about transparency and accountability. There is a risk that private operators may prioritize profit over public service. To mitigate this risk, the NHA will need to establish clear performance metrics and oversight mechanisms.
The Federal Minister for Communications, Privatization, and Board of Investment, Abdul Aleem Khan, has emphasized the need for the NHA to improve its efficiency and increase revenue.
Mr. Khan has directed the authority to set annual revenue targets and adopt a self-reliance policy. The minister also highlighted the importance of modernizing the NHA’s operations and developing a business model that is compatible with current requirements.
By introducing a new vision, the NHA aims to enhance its capacity globally and earn foreign exchange. This could involve offering its expertise in highway construction and management to other countries.
As part of its efforts to improve the country’s transportation infrastructure, the government is investing in the construction of high-quality highways and motorways. The NHA is prioritizing projects such as the Karachi-Sukkur and Sialkot-Kharian motorways. These projects are expected to boost economic growth and development in the regions they serve.
