LAHORE, Feb 28: The Senior Vice President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI), Tanveer Ahmad Sheikh, has called for the immediate launch of direct flights between Lahore and Gwadar, describing the move as essential for strengthening Punjab’s engagement with projects linked to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
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In a statement issued on Friday, Mr Sheikh said that the absence of a non-stop air link between Lahore and Gwadar was creating unnecessary hurdles for investors, business leaders and officials who are actively involved in commercial activities in the port city. He emphasised that direct connectivity would significantly reduce travel time and improve coordination between Punjab’s business community and stakeholders in Gwadar.
“At present, indirect routes can take more than ten hours, causing inefficiency and delays,” he noted. “For investors who require swift decision-making and on-ground monitoring, such prolonged travel is counterproductive.”
Mr Sheikh maintained that Gwadar, being a focal point of CPEC-related development, demands seamless access from major economic hubs such as Lahore. He argued that direct flights would facilitate quicker resolution of regulatory and revenue matters, as well as enable more effective oversight of ongoing and prospective investments.
The LCCI official further observed that improved air links would not only benefit large-scale investors but also encourage small and medium-sized enterprises to explore opportunities in Gwadar. He said enhanced connectivity would foster greater confidence among the business community and strengthen inter-provincial economic integration.
Calling upon the relevant aviation authorities and the federal government to take urgent notice, Mr Sheikh stressed that the initiative would align with broader national objectives of economic growth and regional development. “Direct Lahore–Gwadar flights are not merely a convenience,” he said. “They are a strategic necessity for Punjab’s full participation in the country’s long-term economic vision.”
He expressed hope that the authorities would respond positively to the demand and expedite practical steps to operationalise the route at the earliest opportunity.
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