Islamabad: The Central Development Working Party (CDWP) has approved a series of development projects valued at PKR 187 billion, signaling a major investment in Pakistan’s infrastructure and public services. The approval, chaired by Minister Ahsan Iqbal of the Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives (PDSI) and Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, covers 12 key projects across various sectors, aimed at enhancing national development and connectivity.
According to Zameen.Com, of the 12 projects reviewed, six totaling PKR 19 billion received immediate approval. The other six, with a combined value of PKR 168 billion, have been forwarded to the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) for further consideration. The projects span critical areas including water supply, transportation, and healthcare, reflecting a comprehensive approach to national growth and development.
Key infrastructure initiatives include the Karachi Water and Sewerage Services Improvement Project (KWSSIP) Phase-I and the Greater Water Supply Scheme for Central Hunza from Attabad Lake. KWSSIP, valued at PKR 25.47 billion, seeks to overhaul Karachi’s water services with the support of the World Bank and the Sindh Government. The Hunza project, worth PKR 2.07 billion, aims to integrate solar energy solutions into the region’s water supply.
The transport sector saw significant attention with projects like the Inter-Regional Connectivity Between Baltistan Division and Diamer Astore Division, involving a 105-km road to improve links between Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, with a project value of PKR 12.30 billion. The Lahore Bypass Construction project, from Kalashah Kaku to Mulyam Road, valued at PKR 34.45 billion, was also recommended to ECNEC.
Other notable approvals include the Procurement of Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) vehicles for New Gwadar International Airport, self-financed at PKR 2.08 billion by the Pakistan Airports Authority. Additionally, significant road constructions such as the Dirgi Shahbozai to Tonusa Sharif road and the Ziarat Mor-Kachi-Harnai-Sanjavi Road were also referred to ECNEC for further approval.
In the health sector, the CDWP approved important projects including the establishment of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Shaheed Medical College in Mirpur AJ and K, the creation of a 200-bed Accident and Emergency Center at PIMS Islamabad, and the replacement and upgrading of HVAC systems at PIMS, enhancing healthcare facilities and services across regions.
These projects highlight the federal government’s ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare, improve regional connectivity, and develop critical infrastructure, emphasizing economic resource optimization and national development priorities.