Rs85.5b earmarked for major Karachi projects; CM orders strict monitoring of schemes
CM Murad Ali Shah addresses the Sindh Assembly as the debate on the provincial budget ended on Monday. Photo: Express
KARACHI:
Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Thursday approved a record Rs 1.018 trillion development budget for the fiscal year 2025-26 during a high-level review meeting of the provincial development portfolio held at CM House.
Of the total outlay, Rs 85.5 billion is earmarked for major Karachi projects under the local government department. These include important water and sewerage systems such as K-IV, KWSSIP-II, Hub Canal rehabilitation, new storm drains and 228 related projects. CM Shah directed Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah to regularly review progress of all schemes and ensure timely release of funds. He said the Sindh government remains committed to climate-resilient, equitable and inclusive development that strengthens public services, protects vulnerable communities and accelerates progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Development strategy 2025-26
The chief minister said the provincial strategy focuses on developing climate-resilient infrastructure – including buildings, roads and housing – along with restoring flood-damaged health and education facilities. It also prioritizes improving agricultural productivity through climate-smart practices, strengthening value chains, improving irrigation and water conservation, expanding access to safe drinking water and modern sanitation services, and improving city-to-city connectivity. He said developing mass transit systems for urban centers, expanding social protection programs and inclusive growth in line with the SDGs remain key components of the strategy.
Key ADP programs
Officials briefed the meeting that 293 WASH and municipal service schemes worth Rs85.5b are included in the portfolio. Major Karachi initiatives such as K-IV, KWSSIP-II, Hub Canal and storm water drainage projects are also part of the plan. Under SPHF, WASH facilities will be developed in 5,100 villages.
Roads and infrastructure
The Works and Services Department is executing 620 ongoing road projects across Sindh. Major Karachi schemes include Korangi Causeway Bridge, new underpasses, Lyari Transformation Package and upgrades under the CLICK programme. Rehabilitation of 970 km of flood-affected roads is also underway.
Transport and mass transport
The meeting reviewed progress on BRT Red Line and BRT Yellow Line, expansion of bus fleets in the city and increase in number of electric bicycles for women. CM Shah directed Transport Minister Sharjeel Memon to submit a brief for additional electric buses and motorcycles.
Energy
Finance officials briefed the CM that the necessary funds have been released for the Sindh Solar Energy Project and various solar house initiatives launched under the Rs25b Special Initiative for Renewable Energy.
Social sector
CM Shah reviewed the Rs86b Sindh School Rehabilitation Project along with expansion plans for DHQ/THQ hospitals, trauma centres, new health facilities, Sukkur Women’s University, medical colleges and educational reforms. He said he would personally inspect ongoing development work to monitor quality and pace.
