Ecnec approves Rs411.01 billion for 19 projects

The Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec) has given the green light to 19 development projects amounting to Rs411.01 billion. These projects span across various sectors, with a particular focus on regions like Sindh and Balochistan. Chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, the recent meeting saw the approval of a significant World Bank project aimed at realigning the Karakoram Highway (KKH) between Thakot and Raikot, with a budget of 13.067 billion yuan.

Among the approved projects are the realignment of KKH and the revised PC-I of the new Gwadar airport, both integral parts of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). However, the upgrade of Railways main line-1 (ML-1) did not receive the nod, with a suggestion for Pakistan Railways to focus on smaller, more manageable projects for funding and execution.

Projects in Sindh that received approval include the revised Flood Response Emergency Housing Project and the Karachi Water and Sewerage Services Improvement Project Phase-II. Ecnec also cleared the operationalisation of the Green Line BRTS in Karachi and the rehabilitation of an 86km stretch of the N-5 national highway between Moro and Ranipur.

Turning to Balochistan, Ecnec has sanctioned various sub-components of a $400 million World Bank-funded Integrated Flood Resilience and Adaptation Programme. This program will concentrate on housing reconstruction, road infrastructure, livelihoods, and irrigation infrastructure, with a strong emphasis on expediting reconstruction efforts while upholding quality standards.

Additional projects that received approval include the electrical and mechanical works of the Lowari tunnel, the 48-megawatt Jagran hydropower station, and the extension of the Sehat Sahulat Programme until the end of December. Directives have been issued to enhance fiscal sustainability and regulatory frameworks for these projects.

The approval of these development projects by Ecnec signifies a significant step towards enhancing infrastructure and economic growth in various regions of Pakistan. With a focus on key sectors and strategic initiatives like CPEC, the projects aim to improve living standards, boost connectivity, and ensure sustainable development. The emphasis on quality and efficiency underscores the commitment to delivering impactful outcomes for the people of Pakistan.