2 min read
The Senate Standing Committee on Planning and Development has expressed strong reservations over the uneven distribution of development projects across provinces, accusing the Planning Ministry of approving politically driven schemes and neglecting underdeveloped regions like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
The concerns come amid growing scrutiny of Pakistan’s Public Sector Development Program (PSDP) allocations, where projects are often criticized for political favoritism rather than need-based development.
During a meeting chaired by Senator Quratulain Marri, members questioned the funding priorities, transparency, and pace of national projects. Senator Jam Saifullah alleged that “several projects were being diverted toward Narowal,” calling it a case of political bias.
“These are public funds and must benefit the broader population,” Senator Saifullah emphasized, warning that if the Planning Minister fails to attend the next session, the Committee will notify the Prime Minister and Senate Chairman.
The Committee also criticized a proposal by a foreign company seeking government financing for a Center of Excellence, calling it unjustified. Senator Sadia Abbasi argued that instead of new projects, Pakistan should “strengthen existing research institutions.”
The Committee noted major imbalances in HEC allocations, pointing out that no new universities were approved for KP or Balochistan, while seven were sanctioned for Punjab and three for Sindh. The issue was referred to the Senate Committee on Federal Education for review.
On infrastructure, members discussed the M-6 Motorway (Sukkur–Hyderabad) project delays, particularly the non-appointment of a financial advisor for Section III. The NHA assured the committee that the process is underway, with $475 million financing already approved by the Islamic Development Bank, and additional investment being explored from Saudi Arabia.
“The Committee will continue to ensure that national funds are used transparently and development gaps among provinces are reduced,” said Senator Marri.
