In a noteworthy decision, the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) in Islamabad has given the green light to five development projects with a combined value of Rs10 billion. Furthermore, they have recommended four additional projects, totaling an estimated Rs213.86 billion, to be forwarded for consideration by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC).
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CDWP : A Strategic Gathering
This critical CDWP meeting was skillfully chaired by Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, Mohammad Jehanzeb Khan. It was attended by Secretary of Planning, Awais Manzur Sumra, along with a distinguished assembly of senior officials from the Planning Commission and various federal ministries and divisions. Notably, officials from provincial governments were also present, highlighting the collaborative nature of these developments.
Projects Spanning Multiple Sectors
During this momentous gathering, the CDWP reviewed and discussed projects covering an array of sectors including Food and Agriculture, Education, Energy, Physical Planning & Housing, Science and Technology, Social Welfare, Transport and Communication, and Water Resources.
Focusing on Food & Agriculture
One project that garnered considerable attention was the ‘Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Food Security Support Project’ within the Food & Agriculture sector. This project, with a budget of Rs 24,640 million, has now been referred to ECNEC for further evaluation and approval.
Education Initiatives
In the field of Education, the CDWP approved the ‘Rehabilitation of Schools in Balochistan Affected by Flooding’ project, with a total cost of Rs 1400 million. This endeavor aims to restore schools severely impacted by flooding in Balochistan, thereby enhancing educational opportunities for students in the affected regions.
Another significant project in the Education sector was the ‘Sindh School Rehabilitation Project under Flood Restoration Program,’ which has been recommended to ECNEC for further consideration. Valued at Rs 83,187.5 million, this project encompasses the construction and upgrading of primary schools to higher levels, further strengthening the education system.
Addressing Housing Challenges
A crucial project in the Physical Planning and Housing sector is the ‘Permanent Settlement of IIOJK Refugees 1989 onwards (Phase-1),’ which has been approved at a cost of Rs 3,096.5 million. This project endeavors to provide a lasting solution for the refugees in IIOJK.
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Empowering Women in Finance
The Social Sector saw the presentation of the ‘Women Inclusive Finance Development Program,’ valued at Rs 31,413.047 million. This initiative has been referred to ECNEC for further evaluation and aims to support women entrepreneurs across Pakistan.
Financial Execution and Oversight
The Ministry of Finance (MoF) is assigned as the executing agency for this project, with funding proposed from foreign sources, specifically the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) will serve as the implementation agency and establish a Project Implementation Unit (PIU). The expenses of the PIU will be covered by SBP’s own funds. Oversight of the financing will be managed by a steering committee led by the Executive Director of SBP, with representatives from relevant stakeholders.
Enhancing Transport and Communications
In the realm of Transport & Communications, the CDWP approved the ‘Improvement & Reconditioning of Noseri Leswa By-Pass Road,’ with a length of 52 kilometers in District Muzaffarabad, Neelum, AJK. This project is valued at Rs 1,622.045 million and promises to enhance connectivity in the region.
Advancing Science and Technology
Lastly, a project in the Science and Technology sector, the ‘Establishment of Pak Korea Testing Laboratory for PV Modules and Allied Equipment (Revised),’ with a budget of Rs 1,504.955 million, has received approval from the CDWP. This initiative aims to advance technology and research capabilities in the country.
The CDWP’s approval of these development projects signifies a significant step toward progress and growth in various sectors, reaffirming the commitment to building a better future for Pakistan.