Karachi:
The federal government has decided to restart stopped development projects in Karachi and Hyderabad using federal funds with a fixed obligation to transparency and credit -based tenders. The move aims to eliminate interference from corrupt networks and parallel administrative systems that have historically undermined infrastructure development.
Pakistan Infrastructure Development Company Limited (PIDCL) has announced the resuscitation of 193 development schemes previously canceled due to irregularities and lack of competition. These projects worth billions of rupees were originally approved for constituencies represented by MNAs from Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P).
Pidcl has completed two large financing packages – RS15 billion for Karachi and RS five billion for Hyderabad – during which the development of infrastructure will be performed in accordance with strict credit -based procedures. According to the new guidelines, bids are awarded without the usual commission cutting, setback or political interference.
“Contracts will no longer be sold and all payments are made transparent. Projects will be completed on time and according to the approved standards,” said Pidcl General Manager Shafi Chachahar.
He added that contractors quoting rates more than 10% below the lowest bidder may be required to complete the work at their own expense to prevent manipulation through unsustainable bids. All allotted contracts must be supported by valid bank guarantees, and no project continues without fulfilling these financial protection measures.
To further strengthen the transparency, PIDCL will implement an e-purchase system that is expected to reduce favorites and ensure that bids are allocated solely on profits. Independent consultants are appointed to monitor project execution and compliance with quality standards.
Out of 410 development schemes originally proposed by MQM-P MNAS, 193 were previously canceled due to the presence of individual bidders or unhealthy competition. Pidcl plans to re -publish offers these schemes in the coming days.
In response to concern about billing fraud, Chachar said that Pidcl will coordinate with relevant departments in the introduction and implementing stages of each project. Signboards, which show project information, are also installed on construction sites to ensure public visibility and accountability.
“The federal government has released the demanded funds, and the development work has already begun under the supervision of pidcles. Citizens in Karachi and Hyderabad will begin to see concrete improvements when the schemes are completed,” he added.
The move to perform “system -free” development – without political mediation or corrupt intermediaries – marks a crucial shift in the procedure for urban infrastructure in Sindh’s two largest cities. Pidcl officials expressed hope that the initiative would restore public confidence in development programs and bring long-term relief to the residents.
