PESHAWAR: The provincial government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa approved the provision of Rs 3.9 billion as bridge financing for the timely completion of the under-construction Northern Bypass project. In addition, it would provide Rs 1 billion required for the construction of two underpasses and one bridge on the Northern Bypass. The approval for provision of funds to complete this crucial project for arresting traffic congestion in the provincial capital was granted at a high-level meeting regarding the Peshawar Northern Bypass project, here on Thursday. At the meeting, the overall progress on project was reviewed and key decisions were taken to ensure its early completion. During the meeting, officials of the National Highway Authority assured that the project would be completed by June 2026. Expressing concern over the prolonged delay in the completion of the project, the Chief Minister stated that due to inadequate funding from the federal government, the Peshawar Northern Bypass project has remained incomplete since 2010. He further remarked that delays at the federal level have adversely affected the pace of development projects in KP. The CM, however, emphasized that the Northern Bypass is a project of vital public importance, and the provincial government will extend full cooperation for its early completion. He noted that upon completion, the project will not only improve travel facilities but will also promote commercial and economic activities in the region. The meeting was briefed in detail on the progress achieved so far, during which it was informed that Rs. 23.5 billion have already been spent on the project, with overall financial progress standing at 85.6 percent. The briefing further revealed that physical progress on Package One has reached 100 percent, while Package Two has achieved 64 percent, Package Three 86.6 percent, and Package Three-A 69 percent physical progress. Advisor to the CM on Finance Muzammil Aslam, Member National Highways, Commissioner Peshawar, and senior officials of the relevant provincial departments attended the meeting. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026