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The Senate Standing Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Senator Saifullah Abro, has raised serious concerns over irregularities in multiple foreign-funded projects, urging strict transparency and accountability in the use of international loans.
ADB’s Rs. 172 Billion Project Under Scrutiny
The Committee reviewed the ADB-financed CAREC Tranche projects on the Rajanpur–DG Khan–DI Khan corridor and expressed concern over procurement lapses worth Rs. 172 billion. Senator Abro called it one of the biggest controversies in recent years, criticizing the lack of documentation and delayed inquiry reports despite directives from the Prime Minister’s Office. The NHA assured that clarifications would be sent to the ADB soon to resolve issues and meet the June 2026 completion target.
Pakistan’s Borrowing Trend Questioned
Examining IMF and other loan data till September 2025, Senator Abro said Pakistan’s reliance on foreign borrowing had become habitual. The Committee directed the Ministry of Finance and the State Bank to submit detailed records of loans, repayments, and interest from 2008 onward, while also seeking clarification on Rs. 90 billion allocated under special funds in the 2022–23 budget.
Sindh Faces Probe Over Tender Delays
The Committee reviewed PPRA’s e-Procurement System (EPADS) and criticized Sindh’s delay in adoption. It noted that major departments in Sindh were still using manual tenders worth Rs. 30 billion, despite clear deadlines. Senator Abro called the situation alarming and suggested FIA involvement to probe irregularities.
Concerns Over Solar and Road Projects
The Committee also flagged discrepancies in the World Bank-funded Sindh Solar Energy Project and the ADB-financed Sindh Road Sector Projects. It demanded verified beneficiary lists, full disclosure of NGO payments, and bidder records to prevent collusion and misuse of funds.
Senator Abro concluded that all foreign-funded projects must operate under transparent procedures and directed all departments to submit verified audit records within ten days.
