AsiaNet-Pakistan Premier Editorial Content and Press Release Distribution Service
ISLAMABAD: The Standing Committee on Communications convened its seventh meeting, chaired by Aijaz Hussain Jakhrani, MNA, to address outstanding issues regarding the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) for 2025-26. The committee expressed concerns over delays in budgetary guidelines and ongoing infrastructure projects, including the M-6 Sukkur-Hyderabad project.
According to a statement by National Assembly of Pakistan, the Ministry of Communications informed the committee that the Ministry of Planning and Development and Special Initiatives has yet to issue the necessary budget call circular. This delay hinders the finalization of guidelines for the upcoming financial year’s PSDP. The committee emphasized the need for immediate coordination between the relevant ministries to meet the March 1st deadline for proposals.
The committee also discussed the M-6 Sukkur-Hyderabad project, noting the revised total cost of 399 billion PKR under a public-private partnership model. The bidding process is slated to begin in April 2025, following the approval of PC-1 by ECNEC. A Special Steering Committee, currently in Baku, is exploring financing options for this and other priority projects.
Furthermore, the committee addressed congestion issues on the Karachi Northern Bypass, highlighting its importance in alleviating traffic. It was suggested that no new schemes should be introduced in the PSDP until existing projects are completed to avoid cost overruns.
The meeting included participation from various MNAs and senior officials from the Ministry of Communications and related departments. The committee plans to hold separate meetings to tackle provincial project challenges and ensure timely completion.
The post Communications Committee Urges Swift Action on Infrastructure Delays appeared first on pakistannewsgazette.com.