CM Murad Ali Shah vows to boost Sindh's development

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has expressed disappointment over the delay in implementing the province's development schemes. During a post-budget press conference in Karachi, CM Murad emphasized the importance of completing existing projects and initiatives using the 2024-25 budget. He criticized the caretaker government for halting these schemes, causing setbacks in the province's growth targets.

Admitting that Sindh fell short of its growth target, the chief minister pledged to work towards achieving a 3.5% growth rate in the upcoming fiscal year. He highlighted the challenges of budgeting, with 70% of the current revenue expenditure allocated to salaries, making it a complex task.

In the Rs3.056 trillion budget, the Sindh government has allocated 31% of the total outlay, amounting to Rs959 billion, for development. This includes funds for the provincial Annual Development Plan (ADP) and a development portfolio under the public-private partnership mode. Notably, projects worth Rs62 billion have been completed, with others in various stages of construction and bidding.

CM Shah also addressed revenue generation, with the Sindh Revenue Board aiming for a target of Rs350 billion in the next fiscal year. Responding to allegations of corruption in project implementation, he defended the government's actions, citing challenges faced and the trust placed in them by the people.

On the issue of water security, the chief minister criticized the federal government for insufficient funds allocated to connect Keenjhar Lake to the K-IV project. While the federal government allocated Rs25 billion, the Sindh government plans to invest Rs170 billion, with assurance from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for timely disbursement.

CM Murad Ali Shah's commitment to completing development projects and addressing challenges in revenue generation reflects the Sindh government's dedication to enhancing the province's infrastructure and economy. Despite setbacks, the administration's focus on growth and accountability signals a positive direction for Sindh's future development.