Rs85.5b reserved for major projects in Karachi; CM orders strict monitoring of projects
CM Murad Ali Shah speaks in the Sindh Assembly as the provincial budget debate concludes on Monday. Photo: Express
KARACHI:
Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Thursday approved a record development budget of Rs 1,018 billion for the financial year 2025-26 at a high-level review meeting of the provincial development portfolio held at the CM House.
Of the total expenditure, Rs85.5 billion has been earmarked for major projects in Karachi under the Local Government Department. These include key water supply and sanitation projects such as 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 projects 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 chief minister said the provincial strategy focuses on developing climate-resilient infrastructure – including buildings, roads and housing – as well as restoring health and education 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 sanitation services, and improving connectivity between cities. He said the development of public transport systems for urban centers, the expansion of social protection programs and inclusive growth aligned with the SDGs remain central elements of the strategy.
ADP Key Programs
The officials informed the meeting that 293 WASH and municipal service projects worth Rs85.5b are included in the portfolio. Major initiatives of Karachi such as K-IV, KWSSIP-II, Hub Canal and stormwater drainage projects are also part of the plan. Under the SPHF, WASH facilities will be developed in 5,100 villages.
Roads and infrastructure
The Department of Works and Services is implementing 620 ongoing road projects across Sindh. Karachi’s major projects include the Korangi Causeway Bridge, new underpasses, the Lyari Transformation Package and upgrades under the CLICK program. The rehabilitation of 970 km of roads affected by flooding is also underway.
Transport and public transport
The meeting reviewed progress on the BRT Red Line and BRT Yellow Line, the expansion of intra-city bus fleets and increasing the number of e-bikes for women. CM Shah asked Transport Minister Sharjeel Memon to submit a summary of additional electric buses and motorcycles.
Energy
Finance officials informed the CM that the required funds have been released for the Sindh Solar Power Project and various solar home system initiatives launched under the Rs25b Special Initiative for Renewable Energy.
Social sector
CM Shah reviewed the Rs86b Sindh School rehabilitation project along with expansion plans of DHQ/THQ hospitals, trauma centers, new health facilities, Sukkur Women’s University, medical colleges and education reforms. He said he would personally inspect the ongoing development work to monitor its quality and pace.
