Central Development Working Party clears five projects worth over Rs60 billion

The Central Development Working Party (CDWP) recently approved five development projects with an estimated cost of over Rs60 billion in Islamabad. Among these projects is a substantial water supply scheme to provide water from Mirani Dam to Gwadar through a 125-kilometre pipeline. This project has been reduced in cost by around 20%, saving an estimated Rs5.235 billion without altering the design or scope.

The CDWP recommended that Gwadar not become a Karachi, with sewage polluting the sea, and directed the provincial government to conduct a study on wastewater treatment. The CDWP also cleared the Karachi Neighbourhood Improvement Project, valued at Rs19.55 billion, for approval by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec).

This project is expected to be financed through foreign funding, including an $85 million (Rs16.7 billion) World Bank loan and Rs2.8 billion contributions from the Sindh government. Other approved projects include the establishment of a Medical and Nursing College at Gilgit and a National Defence University FCS Campus at Defence Complex Islamabad, both estimated to cost Rs4.924 billion and Rs2.75 billion respectively.

Additionally, the CDWP approved the construction of a road connecting Zera to Daboori in District Orakzai, estimated at Rs4.037 billion. The minister emphasized releasing funds before the winter season to expedite completion.