SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: Residents of Lower South Waziristan have urged the federal and provincial governments to immediately release funds for construction of the long-delayed Tanai-Gul Kuch Road, a key infrastructure project that they say is vital for the region’s economic and social development.

The 42km road project was inaugurated in 2020 by former Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief minister Mahmood Khan. The scheme was approved at an estimated cost of Rs760 million and was expected to be completed within three years. However, despite the passage of six years since the foundation stone was laid, construction work has yet to begin.

Local residents said the prolonged delay has caused frustration among communities living along the proposed route. They recalled that the announcement of the project had raised hopes of improved connectivity and development in an area that has long suffered from inadequate infrastructure.

According to residents, the existing road linking Tanai and Gul Kuch is in a dilapidated condition, making travel difficult as well as dangerous. Seasonal rains and years of neglect have further damaged the route, creating serious challenges for commuters, traders, students and patients who rely on the road for transportation.

Community elders and youth representatives from Spin village expressed concern over lack of progress on the project. They said local communities have repeatedly approached relevant authorities and elected representatives to seek updates on the scheme, but no satisfactory explanation had been provided regarding the delay.

“We have been waiting for years, yet not a single brick has been laid,” a resident told Dawn on Wednesday. “The project was announced with great expectations, but there is still no visible sign of construction activity.”

Residents also criticised the performance of Communication and Works (C&W) Department, alleging that the department had failed to initiate work despite the importance of the project.

They urged the provincial government and the chief secretary of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to take immediate notice of the delay and ensure accountability for the lack of progress.

Officials in the district administration acknowledged that the project had been delayed primarily due to the non-release of funds.

Published in Dawn, June 18th, 2026