Tensions escalated in the Senate Sub-committee on Communications as a Chinese-led consortium involved in the Central Asia Regional Economic Corridor project refused to provide additional documentation beyond its original bid. Lawmakers expressed outrage, accusing the firm of evading scrutiny.

During a meeting, officials from National Highway Authority (NHA) informed the committee that the lowest bidder had been asked to submit further details to verify its credentials, as directed by both the sub-committee and the Senate Standing Committee on Economic Affairs.

However, the consortium declined asserting that it had already submitted comprehensive documents in accordance with tender requirements. A letter presented to the committee emphasised that any additional requests should be linked to specific bidding clauses.

The consortium rejected demands for records such as detailed payment histories , bank statements and tax certificates claiming these were outside the original tender scope.

The refusal drew strong criticism from committee members, who argued that companies were intentionally withholding information to evade accountability and expressed concerns about the fairness of the contract award.

Senator Saifullah Abro suggested that the NHA formally consult the Asian Development Bank to clarify the consortium’s obligations and communicate the committee concerns.

In defence of consortium, spokesperson Imdadullah stated that the company secured the project “ïn a just and transparent manner”.

He accussed some lawmakers with interests in rival bids of attempting to manipulate the situation to hinder the project.

He further stated, “We firmly believe in transparency and openness but we will not tolerate discrimination driven by successful bidders who are also members of the house , ”