Islamabad, Sep 22: The planning minister recently approved several significant infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing connectivity and resource management in Pakistan.
One notable initiative is the “Greater Water Supply Scheme for Central Hunza from Attabad Lake (Revised),” with an estimated cost of Rs. 2,075.667 million.
The Minister emphasized the need for integrating solar energy projects into this scheme to promote sustainability in the region.
In the Transport & Communications sector, five key projects were discussed. The “Inter-Regional Connectivity Between Baltistan Division & Diamer Astore Division” project, which involves constructing a 105-km road from Kachura to Astore Valley, was referred to the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) for further review.
This road aims to enhance travel safety and comfort between Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The Minister also called for a comprehensive tourism development and land zoning plan to ensure that infrastructure development aligns with environmental preservation, suggesting the involvement of a reputable tourism consultant.
Another project, “Procurement of Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting vehicles for the new Gwadar International Airport,” worth Rs. 2,079.758 million, was approved and will be financed by the Pakistan Airports Authority.
Additionally, the “Construction/Upgradation of the Dirgi Shahbozai to Tonusa Sharif road” (155 km) was recommended to ECNEC, aiming to improve essential infrastructure in Baluchistan and Punjab.
The “Construction of Ziarat More – Kachi – Harnai – Sanjavi Road Project” (Package-I) was also referred for ECNEC consideration after third-party validation. This project includes comprehensive road rehabilitation and construction in the Harnai and Ziarat districts.
Lastly, the “Construction of Lahore Bypass” (18.5 km) from Kalashah Kaku to Mulyam Road is under review, with an estimated cost of Rs. 34,446.585 million.
The Minister reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to prioritizing projects in Balochistan and enhancing overall infrastructure across the country
