Islamabad: The Central Development Working Party (CDWP), chaired by Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal, convened to evaluate various development projects, ultimately approving four projects totaling Rs. 12.437 billion and recommending three significant initiatives, valued at Rs. 240.537 billion, to the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) for further review.

According to Press Information Department: The meeting, attended by key figures from the Planning Commission and federal ministries, focused on projects in Higher Education, Information Technology, and Physical Planning & Housing. These projects align with the government’s URAAN Pakistan agenda, which seeks to enhance human capital and infrastructure while promoting sustainable growth.

In the Higher Education sector, four projects were highlighted. The “Strengthening of the Women University of AJ&K Bagh” was approved with a revised cost. A committee was formed to ensure cost efficiency and quality standards. The “Provision of Academic Facilities at Emerson University, Multan” received approval pending cost rationalization. The “Establishment of Hyderabad Institute for Technology and Management Sciences” was approved with modifications, and the “Strengthening of KBCMA CVAS” was approved at a rationalized cost.

A significant Information Technology project, the “Establishment of Pakistan Space Centre (PSC),” sponsored by SUPARCO, was referred to ECNEC. This project is part of the National Space Program (NSP)-2047, aiming to bolster Pakistan’s space technology capabilities.

In the Physical Planning & Housing sector, the “Lahore Water and Waste Water Management Project” and the “Greater Karachi Bulk Water Supply Scheme (K-IV) 260 MGD (Phase-I)” were both referred to ECNEC. These projects aim to improve water management and supply infrastructure in Lahore and Karachi, respectively.

Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal emphasized the importance of these initiatives for public welfare, particularly the Greater Karachi Bulk Water Supply Scheme, which promises social and economic benefits for Karachi’s residents. The Government of Sindh was urged to expedite a report on the project’s critical components to ensure timely completion.