Peshawar, Under the leadership of Caretaker Chief Minister Justice Retired Syed Arshad Hussain Shah, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province has witnessed a significant turnaround from a dire economic situation to a position of financial stability, with the current treasury boasting Rs.100 billion. This achievement comes without acquiring loans from any banks or institutions, marking a notable period of economic management and development initiatives by the caretaker government.
According to Directorate General Information and PRs – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, when Justice Shah took office, KP faced an acute financial crisis, lacking even the funds necessary for employee salaries. However, through effective strategy and teamwork, the administration not only navigated the province out of its fiscal difficulties but also secured substantial financial support from the federal government. This includes an additional Rs.64 billion in funds, with Rs.4.1 billion from an agreement between the Federal Board of Revenue and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Revenue Authority, and Rs.20 billion under the National Finance Commission Award. Furthermore, the province received Rs.28 billion for the rapid development of merged districts and Rs.12 billion as net profit of hydropower.
During a press conference at the Chief Minister’s House in Peshawar, alongside caretaker provincial ministers Barrister Feroze Jamal Shah Ka Ka Khel, Ahmed Rasool Bangash, and Dr. Najibullah, Shah highlighted the successful and peaceful conduct of general elections in the province, attributing the smooth process to the collective efforts of the civil administration, Pakistan Army, police, and other institutions.
The caretaker government also initiated significant measures across various departments. In education, the “Ilam Tolo Di Para” campaign, launched in cooperation with the Pakistan Army and FC, led to the enrollment of over 33,000 children and the activation of 134 previously inactive schools. Additionally, 10 digital skills labs were established, 250 teachers were recruited under PTC funds, and hostel facilities were provided to 961 students.
In the realm of planning and development, the government approved 57 development projects worth Rs.206 billion through the Provincial Development Working Party (PDWP), encompassing both new and ongoing projects, thereby laying a foundation for sustained growth and development in the province.