The National Highways Authority (NHA) in Pakistan is embroiled in a corruption scandal involving illegal approvals of Rs 100 billion, fake appointments, and bureaucratic looting. Here’s a breakdown of the key issues
- Illegal Approvals: The NHA’s Chief Executive, Shehryar Sultan, granted anticipatory approvals worth Rs 100 billion without legal authority or approval from the National Highways Council, violating rules and misusing public funds.
- Officers on Deputation: Over 100 officers have been posted on deputation without institutional connections, paralyzing the institution and flouting rules. Some officers, like Muhammad Shakeel Anwar and Iftikhar Mehboob, have served over nine years, exceeding the five-year deputation limit.
- Nepotism and Favored Appointments: Shehryar Sultan made questionable appointments, including a woman officer from Pakistan Post as Chairman KSO Coordination, despite lacking NHA experience. Other appointments include a Grade 18 officer from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) holding two key posts simultaneously.
- Illegal Transfer of Funds: The National Highway and Motorway Police (NH&MP) received 75% of NHA funds without National Highway Council approval, sparking concerns about corruption and mismanagement.
The scandal has led to calls for intervention from the Chief of Army Staff, General Syed Asim Munir, to restore discipline and competent leadership within the NHA. Some suggest appointing a talented Major General or Lieutenant General from the Engineering Corps to oversee the institution’s reform.
Historically, the NHA has faced similar corruption issues. In 2021, allegations of corruption worth over Rs 1000 billion surfaced, involving motorway contracts awarded between 2013-2018. Transparency International Pakistan has also highlighted various cases of corruption and mismanagement within the NHA.
