Islamabad: The Central Development Working Party (CDWP) recently approved 12 development projects totaling Rs. 187 billion. Chaired by Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, the meeting saw approval for six projects directly by the CDWP and recommendations for another six to the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) for further consideration.
According to Press Information Department, Minister Ahsan Iqbal highlighted the importance of cost rationalization during the proceedings. He stressed that in the face of significant economic challenges, it is essential to optimize project expenditures. Projects spanned various sectors, including Health, Industries & Commerce, Physical Planning & Housing, Transport & Communication, and Water Resources.
The health sector saw approvals for projects like the establishment of the Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Shaheed Medical College in Mirpur and an Accident and Emergency Center at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences in Islamabad. The meeting also recommended substantial projects such as the Karachi Water & Sewerage Services Improvement Project (Phase-I) and a revised project for a water supply scheme in Central Hunza for ECNEC’s approval.
Transport and communications projects included road construction in Gilgit-Baltistan and Balochistan, aiming to enhance regional connectivity and support tourism and local development. One significant approved project was the procurement of Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting vehicles for the new Gwadar International Airport, highlighting a push towards enhancing safety and infrastructure in critical areas.
Water Resources projects were also prominent, with the Sindh Flood Emergency Rehabilitation Project focusing on rehabilitating irrigation and drainage networks damaged during the 2022 floods, emphasizing resilience and long-term preparedness.
As these projects move forward, they promise to address critical infrastructure needs across Pakistan, aiming to bolster economic growth and regional development amidst challenging economic times.