IHC Gives Final Deadline To Planning Division For Release Of Funds For Bhong Interchange
ISLAMABAD, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 20th Aug, 2026) The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday gave a final deadline to the Planning Division for release of funds for construction of the Bhong Interchange on the Multan-Sukkur Motorway, in accordance with a Supreme Court judgment.
Court’s Displeasure Over Fund Non-Release
Justice Muhammad Asif expressed serious displeasure over the non-release of funds for the project and directed an official to convey to the Secretary Planning that the court was providing a final opportunity for fund release.
“Go and tell the Secretary that we are giving a final deadline for releasing the funds,” the judge remarked, warning that if the funds were not released, the Secretary Planning would be summoned and charges framed against him.
Background of the Case
The court was hearing a petition filed by Rais Munir, through his counsel, Advocate Waqar Rana, seeking implementation of the Supreme Court’s decision regarding construction of the Bhong Interchange.
Petitioner’s Counsel’s Arguments
During the proceedings, the petitioner’s counsel stated that the court was being repeatedly approached due to the matter involving implementation of the Supreme Court’s order under Article 187 of the Constitution. He highlighted that:
- The National Highway Authority (NHA), Planning Division, and Finance Division had assured completion of the project within one year.
- Two and a half years had passed beyond the expected completion date.
- Approximately 50% of the project had been completed, but the remaining work was being delayed due to non-release of funds by the Finance and Planning divisions.
NHA’s Response
The NHA’s counsel submitted that the project was part of the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) and required implementation in accordance with the court’s directions. He mentioned that the NHA had demanded Rs900 million for the next financial year but the amount had not yet been released.
The counsel for the NHA also sought an explanation from the Planning Division regarding the non-release of funds.
Advocate Waqar Rana’s Request
Advocate Waqar Rana requested the court to constitute a commission to visit the project site and assess the progress of work. He argued that a previous order for constitution of a commission had not been implemented.
He further contended that the Secretary Planning and officials of the Finance Division were committing contempt of court by failing to implement the court’s directions.
Judge’s Remark
Justice Muhammad Asif remarked that the project had been given one year for completion, whereas three years had now passed.
The judge again directed the law officer to convey to the Secretary that the court could frame charges if the funds were not released.
The law officer requested the court not to summon the Secretary immediately, saying that she would obtain instructions from the concerned authorities.
