Islamabad: The Senate Standing Committee on Economic Affairs has expressed serious concerns over delays and cost escalations in the Lahore Wastewater and Drainage Management Project and called for increased transparency in foreign-funded projects. The Committee also raised issues regarding rupee cover for the 765kV Dasu-Islamabad Transmission Line Project, emphasizing the need for timely payments and effective oversight.

According to Senate of Pakistan, the Committee meeting was attended by several Senators and senior officials from relevant ministries, where concerns were raised regarding delays in the procurement process and increased project costs. The Lahore Wastewater and Drainage Management Project, aimed at improving the city’s sewerage system, was particularly scrutinized for its prolonged procurement and implementation processes, which have substantially increased costs.

The Committee requested details on the consultancy hiring process, noting delays and the lack of transparency in procurement. It emphasized the need for effective oversight and timely completion of foreign-funded projects to protect public finances. Concerns were also expressed about the tendering process for the Faisalabad projects, with recommendations for improved coordination and monitoring to prevent further delays and cost escalations.

During discussions on the 765kV Dasu-Islamabad Transmission Line Project, the Committee noted the absence of the Secretary, Ministry of Finance and Revenue, and called for an urgent resolution of the rupee-cover issue to avoid further complications. The Committee stressed the importance of ensuring timely payments and presented recommendations for improving transparency in project implementation, including a proposal for a dedicated monitoring desk to oversee foreign-funded projects.