Islamabad: The Senate Standing Committee on Economic Affairs has reported irregularities in the allocation and implementation of foreign-funded development projects in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in the road, flood rehabilitation, and irrigation sectors. The committee, led by Senator Saifullah Abro, scrutinized the allocation of funds and emphasized the need for transparency in the use of external financing.

According to Senate of Pakistan, the committee received detailed briefings from the Communication and Works Department of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on various district road projects and infrastructure schemes funded by international development partners. During the discussions, members highlighted significant disparities in project allocations, with some flood-affected areas receiving fewer resources compared to less affected regions. The committee expressed concerns about potential misleading of donor agencies regarding project priorities and stressed the necessity of equitable distribution of resources.

The Ministry of Economic Affairs stated that while it facilitates loan disbursement, the responsibility for project implementation lies with provincial governments once funds are transferred. Chairman Abro noted the increasing national debt and emphasized the importance of utilizing external resources efficiently. The committee also discussed the costs and management of road construction projects, questioning the financial details and the limited number of firms involved in project contracts.

The meeting also addressed issues related to external pressures on local projects, including concerns about the World Bank’s involvement in the Sindh Water and Agriculture Transmission Project. The committee emphasized that project execution should remain the responsibility of local authorities without undue external influence. The session was attended by several senators and senior officials from relevant departments.