Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Division is currently advancing with 232 highway projects as part of its broader development efforts, alongside 25,610 active schemes across various sectors. Chief Secretary Sindh Syed Asif Haider Shah, during a meeting at Shahbaz Hall, highlighted the ongoing projects and stressed the importance of efficient use of the PKR 950 billion development budget, noting concerns about delays in project completion and inadequate funding allocations.
According to Zameen.Com, the Chief Secretary emphasized that 15,722 of the ongoing schemes are focused on road development. He called for improved inter-departmental cooperation and communication to optimize budget management and expedite project completion. Shah also expressed frustration over the slow progress of critical infrastructure, such as a 2015 pumping station project that was stalled due to a minor cost issue of PKR 2500. He underscored the importance of providing clean drinking water and better managing Maintenance and Repair (M and R) funds.
Key officials present at the meeting included Additional Chief Secretary Syed Khalid Haider Shah, as well as secretaries from the Finance, School Education, Planning and Development, and Works and Services departments. Discussions centered around the necessity of timely project completion, particularly in addressing issues such as water access and activating inactive reverse osmosis (RO) plants.
Chairman of Planning and Development Syed Najam Shah assured that funds were available but stressed the need for timely expenditures. He recommended immediate tendering for pending projects and reviewing or closing inactive initiatives. Divisional Commissioner Bilal Ahmed Memon added that a new group has been established to improve collaboration among departments and enhance development outcomes. However, Memon noted challenges, such as the lack of a comprehensive master plan for Hyderabad, though efforts are underway to create one.
The meeting also addressed the impact of population growth and urban flooding on infrastructure, with disruptions affecting educational activities in areas like Juhi and Khairpur Nathan Shah. In addition to highway development, 97 building and educational projects are being implemented, including specific allocations for Hyderabad, Badin, Sajawal, Matiari, Tando Allahyar, and Tando Muhammad Khan.
Despite progress, several challenges persist, including delays and funding issues affecting 72 revised projects, 10 delayed projects, and 12 stalled due to financial constraints. Additionally, 90 public health schemes are facing similar challenges. The Secretary of School Education noted that while public schools in regions like Ghotki, Sanghar, Matiari, and Tando Muhammad Khan have received budget allocations, only finishing work remains at the Tando Muhammad Khan Public School.
Deputy Commissioner Dadu raised urgent concerns about the need for a National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD) unit in Dadu and discussed equipment requirements for completing the District Headquarters Hospital and Cadet College Kakar.