Mangwaltan to TOHA Road & Manglawar to Banjot Road – Swat
Project Details
- Client: Communication & Works (C&W), Swat
- Project Start Date: April 22, 2020
- Project Completion Date: December 31, 2022
- Total Project Cost: 100 million PKR
- Bid Amount: 7.253 million PKR
- Scope of Work: Foundation, Superstructure, Drainage, Quality Control, Construction (F, S, D, Q, C)
- Contractor Type: Single Firm
- Project Nature: Design Vetting & Construction Supervision
Project Overview
The Mangwaltan to TOHA Road & Manglawar to Banjot Road project was a key infrastructure development in Swat, aimed at improving road connectivity and accessibility in the region. These roads serve as vital links between rural and urban areas, facilitating smoother transportation, trade, and tourism.
The project focused on design vetting and construction supervision, ensuring compliance with engineering standards, durability, and safety regulations. The roads were designed to withstand heavy traffic loads and harsh weather conditions, with proper drainage systems incorporated to prevent waterlogging and erosion.
Key Challenges in Construction
1. Terrain and Geological Challenges
- The project area is mountainous, requiring extensive excavation, slope stabilization, and retaining wall construction to prevent landslides.
- Soil instability in certain sections made foundation work more complex, necessitating reinforcement measures.
2. Harsh Weather Conditions
- Swat experiences heavy rainfall and snowfall, impacting construction activities, particularly earthworks and asphalt paving.
- Extreme temperature fluctuations required special asphalt mixtures and curing techniques to ensure road longevity.
3. Logistical and Transportation Issues
- Transporting heavy construction machinery and materials to remote areas was difficult due to narrow and steep roads.
- Ensuring continuous supply of asphalt, cement, and aggregates was challenging due to the region’s rugged terrain.
4. Community and Environmental Concerns
- Local communities relied on existing pathways, so traffic disruptions needed careful management to avoid inconveniences.
- Environmental regulations required minimal deforestation and soil erosion control measures, increasing project complexity.
5. Quality Assurance and Engineering Supervision
- The design vetting process required multiple reviews and adjustments to ensure compliance with Pakistan Highway Standards and AASHTO guidelines.
- Strict quality control procedures were implemented, including material testing and compaction verification, to ensure durability.
Project Outcomes and Benefits
- Improved Connectivity: The roads provide better access to Swat Valley’s tourism and business hubs, enhancing regional mobility.
- Boost to Local Economy: Easier transportation benefits local traders, farmers, and businesses by reducing travel time and transport costs.
- Enhanced Safety: The roads were designed with proper slope protection, signage, and drainage systems to prevent accidents and road damage.
- Sustainable Infrastructure: High-quality construction materials and strict supervision ensure long-term durability with minimal maintenance needs.
- Support for Tourism: Swat is a popular tourist destination, and improved roads facilitate safer and faster travel for visitors.
The Mangwaltan to TOHA Road & Manglawar to Banjot Road project was successfully completed despite challenging geographical conditions and logistical hurdles. The design vetting and supervision ensured that the roads met high-quality construction standards, providing lasting benefits to the region in terms of connectivity, economic growth, and safety.
