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Peshawar-Karachi Motorway on a par with world’s leading motorways: Xiao Hua

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Peshawar-Karachi Motorway (PKM) meets the highest standards, utilizes full software and hardware functions, and is on par with several of the world’s leading motorways.


“Definitely, it is the most comfortable road in Pakistan. And local people believe that PKM is the road of friendship between China and Pakistan,” according to Xiao Hua, general manager of the PKM project and chairman of the China State Construction Engineering Corporation Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.


The year 2021 marks the 70th year of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan. One of the shining symbols of bilateral cooperation is the Peshawar-Karachi Motorway (PKM), which has helped improve the traffic efficiency and overall traffic conditions in Pakistan.


As the largest transport infrastructure project undertaken to date in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the 392-kilometer-long project was completed by China Construction in 2019. This year the project won China’s National Quality Golden Engineering Award, CGTN reported on Tuesday.


The CPEC, an iconic project of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative, is a framework of regional connectivity under construction throughout Pakistan beginning in 2013. It is also one of the key witnesses of China-Pakistan bilateral relations, carrying 70 years of engagements to the next level.


The project cost $3 billion and construction took three years, Xiao Hua said and added, it provided direct employment to around 30,000 Pakistani people, Xiao said, adding that Pakistan also provided more than 4,500 rangers for the project for security purposes.


After the completion, the original 11-hour drive between Peshawar and Karachi will be shortened to four hours, thus improving the overall traffic conditions in Pakistan.


The PKM project, which adopted Chinese standards and technology, is one of the best local highways in terms of using intelligent solutions.


Due to the strained security situation in Pakistan, the project used Chinese unmanned aerial vehicles for aerial photography and efficient survey technologies for security, said Yang Changjiang, executive vice manager of the project.

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Why Can’t We Make PIA Soar Again? It’s Time for Accountability and Vision

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Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), once a symbol of national pride and a beacon of excellence in aviation, is now a struggling entity, facing severe operational and financial challenges. Over the decades, PIA has seen its reputation erode due to mismanagement, political interference, corruption, and a lack of long-term strategic vision. The question that looms over the nation is: Why can’t we make PIA soar again, and what will it take to restore its lost glory?

A Glorious Past, A Struggling Present

PIA was once at the forefront of innovation in the global aviation industry. It was the first airline in Asia to induct a jet aircraft and played a crucial role in launching other major airlines. The organization was known for its exemplary service, skilled workforce, and state-of-the-art fleet. Unfortunately, this prestigious image has been overshadowed by a series of setbacks that have brought the national carrier to its knees.

Root Causes of PIA’s Decline

  1. Political Interference: One of the major factors contributing to PIA’s decline has been excessive political meddling. Successive governments have treated PIA as a tool for political patronage, often making appointments based on loyalty rather than merit. This has led to inefficiency and a bloated workforce that burdens the airline’s financial stability.
  2. Lack of Accountability: Corruption and mismanagement have plagued PIA for years. From questionable procurement practices to poor financial management, the lack of accountability has allowed inefficiencies to thrive. The absence of a culture that holds officials responsible for their actions has exacerbated the situation.
  3. Operational Inefficiencies: Overstaffing, outdated technology, and aging aircraft have made PIA one of the least efficient airlines in the region. High maintenance costs, poor scheduling, and frequent delays have diminished the trust of passengers, leading to a decline in customer loyalty.
  4. Financial Mismanagement: The financial woes of PIA are no secret. Mounting debts and continuous losses have made it difficult for the airline to invest in fleet modernization or improve service quality. Despite government bailouts, the airline continues to struggle financially, raising concerns about the sustainability of its operations.

The Need for Accountability and Vision

To revive PIA, a comprehensive reform plan focused on accountability, transparency, and a clear vision for the future is necessary. Here are some strategies that can help turn PIA around:

  1. Professional Management: The airline needs to be run by aviation experts and industry professionals, free from political interference. Appointing competent leadership with a proven track record in the aviation sector is crucial for steering the airline in the right direction.
  2. Streamlining Operations: Reducing operational inefficiencies, right-sizing the workforce, and investing in modern technology can significantly improve the airline’s performance. A data-driven approach to managing routes and optimizing flight schedules will help enhance profitability.
  3. Fleet Modernization: An aging fleet not only incurs high maintenance costs but also impacts passenger safety and comfort. Investing in new, fuel-efficient aircraft will not only improve service quality but also reduce operational costs in the long run.
  4. Customer-Centric Approach: Restoring passenger trust is paramount. This can be achieved by improving on-time performance, enhancing in-flight services, and ensuring a seamless travel experience. Listening to customer feedback and adapting to their needs will go a long way in rebuilding PIA’s reputation.
  5. Transparency and Governance: Implementing strict measures to ensure transparency in financial and operational dealings is essential. Independent audits and stringent anti-corruption policies must be enforced to root out corruption and mismanagement.

A National Responsibility

Reviving PIA is not just about saving an airline; it’s about restoring national pride. As a national carrier, PIA represents Pakistan on the global stage. A well-functioning PIA can boost tourism, create jobs, and contribute significantly to the country’s economy. It is time for all stakeholders, including the government, aviation authorities, and the citizens of Pakistan, to demand accountability and work towards a shared vision that can make PIA soar once again.

The road to recovery is not easy, but with the right leadership, commitment to transparency, and a relentless focus on excellence, PIA can reclaim its status as one of the leading airlines in the world. The time for action is now; Pakistan deserves an airline that truly reflects the nation’s potential and aspirations.

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