Traffic flow on the M-5 Motorway will be temporarily affected due to electricity restoration work being carried out by the Multan Electric Power Company (MEPCO).
According to a spokesperson for the Central Region, the Iqbalabad-to-Guddu section of the M-5 Motorway will remain temporarily closed on June 15 and 16, while today it will be opened for all kinds of traffic.
The spokesperson said traffic movement at the Guddu and Iqbalabad interchanges will be suspended from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on both days to facilitate the restoration of high-transmission towers and power lines by MEPCO.
Traffic travelling from Multan to Sukkur will be diverted from the Iqbalabad Interchange onto the N-5 National Highway. Similarly, vehicles travelling from Sukkur to Multan will be diverted from the Guddu Interchange to the N-5 National Highway.
Heavy traffic will not be allowed to enter the motorway from the Rohri Toll Plaza during the specified hours.
The alternative route will add approximately 148 kilometres to the journey. Light Transport Vehicles (LTVs) are expected to require around two additional hours of travel time, while Heavy Transport Vehicles (HTVs) may face delays of up to three hours.
Authorities have advised travellers to allocate at least 30 extra minutes before departure to ensure a safe and timely journey.
Motorway Police will implement a special traffic management plan to facilitate commuters and maintain safety during the closure. Travellers are urged to check alternative routes and traffic updates before commencing their journey on June 15 and 16.
For travel assistance and guidance, motorists can contact the Motorway Police Helpline at 130, the spokesperson added.
In a separate development, Pakistan is set to modernise its motorway network with the introduction of an advanced Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) and a cashless toll collection mechanism aimed at improving traffic flow and road safety across major highways.
The proposed barrier-free tolling system will allow motorists to pass through toll plazas without stopping, reducing congestion and cutting travel times. The new technology will also be integrated with the Safe City network, enabling real-time monitoring and coordination between traffic management authorities and law enforcement agencies for faster response to accidents and emergencies.
As part of the modernisation drive, motorway service areas will be upgraded with improved passenger facilities and enhanced security measures. A permanent presence of Motorway Police will be ensured at service areas, while emergency services, including Rescue 1122 teams, ambulances and fire brigades, will be deployed at key points along major routes.
Also read: Govt approves major motorway expansion plan
