Government launches Rs. 5.5 billion project to upgrade Dera Ghazi Khan Airport
The federal government has launched a Rs5.5 billion project to upgrade Dera Ghazi Khan Airport, with completion scheduled for January 2028, in a move aimed at improving air connectivity and strengthening transport infrastructure in South Punjab.
Federal Minister for Energy Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari announced the development during an inspection visit to the airport, where Civil Aviation Authority officials briefed him on the project’s progress and key components, including a planned runway extension.
The project follows Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s announcement to develop the airport to accommodate international flights, potentially providing residents, business communities and overseas Pakistanis with improved travel options.
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The proposed expansion is expected to enhance regional connectivity, facilitate business travel and support economic activity in Dera Ghazi Khan and surrounding areas. However, the launch of international flight operations will depend on the completion of the necessary infrastructure, regulatory requirements and operational arrangements.
Airport expansion part of wider development plan
The airport project forms part of a broader package of four major development initiatives announced for Dera Ghazi Khan by the prime minister.
The other projects include the establishment of a cancer hospital, development of a long-term sewerage system and the widening and rehabilitation of roads across the city.
According to Leghari, the proposed sewerage system is being designed to meet Dera Ghazi Khan’s requirements over the next 50 years, addressing the city’s long-term sanitation and drainage needs.
Meanwhile, road rehabilitation and widening schemes are intended to improve traffic flow, enhance transport links and support the city’s expanding infrastructure requirements.
Procurement process advances
The airport modernisation initiative has already passed an important procurement milestone. In April 2026, the Pakistan Airports Authority opened financial bids for the airport’s airside infrastructure upgrade, advancing the process towards implementation.
The ongoing work is expected to improve the airport’s capacity and operational readiness, laying the groundwork for its proposed role in international aviation.
The Rs5.5 billion investment reflects the federal government’s broader efforts to improve public infrastructure and expand transport facilities in underserved regions.
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If completed according to schedule, the upgraded airport could offer new
opportunities for regional commerce, tourism and business development while making air travel more accessible for people in South Punjab.
The project’s long-term impact will depend on timely completion, effective implementation and the establishment of viable international flight operations.
Source: PAA