85.5 billion rupees set aside for major projects in Karachi; CM orders strict monitoring of schemes
CM Murad Ali Shah speaks in the Sindh Assembly as the debate on the provincial budget concluded on Monday. Photo: Express
KARACHI:
Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Thursday approved a record development budget of Rs 1.018 trillion for fiscal year 2025-26 during a high-level review meeting of the provincial development portfolio held at the CM House.
Of the total outlay, Rs 85.5 billion has been allocated for important projects in Karachi under the Local Government Department. These include key water and sewage schemes like K-IV, KWSSIP-II, Hub Canal rehabilitation, new stormwater drains and 228 related projects. CM Shah directed Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah to regularly review the 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 towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Development Strategy 2025-26
The premier said the provincial strategy focuses on developing climate-resilient infrastructure – including buildings, roads and housing – along with restoring health and educational facilities damaged by floods. It also prioritizes improving agricultural productivity through climate-smart practices, strengthening value chains, improving irrigation and water conservation, expanding access to clean water and modern sewage services, and improving connectivity between towns and cities. He said the development of mass transportation systems for urban centers, the expansion of social protection programs and inclusive growth aligned with the SDGs remain core components of the strategy.
ADP Key Programs
Officials informed the meeting that 293 municipal and WASH service schemes worth Rs 85.5 billion are included in the portfolio. Karachi’s major initiatives such as K-IV, KWSSIP-II, Hub Canal and stormwater drainage projects are also part of the plan. Under SPHF, WASH facilities will be developed in 5,100 villages.
Roads and infrastructure
The Department of Works and Services is executing 620 ongoing road projects across Sindh. Karachi’s major projects include Korangi Causeway Bridge, new underpasses, Lyari Transformation Package and improvements under the CLICK programme. Rehabilitation of 970 kilometers of flood-affected roads is also underway.
Transportation and mass transit
The meeting reviewed the progress of the BRT Red Line and BRT Yellow Line, the expansion of intra-city bus fleets and the increase in the 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 informed the CM that necessary funds have been released for the Sindh Solar Energy Project and various solar home system initiatives launched under the Rs 25 billion 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 the ongoing development works to monitor the quality and pace.
