Planning Ministry Seeks Rs. 30 Billion for Ongoing Projects in FY26

The Planning Ministry has requested over Rs. 30 billion for ongoing projects in the next financial year, including Rs. 10 billion for reconstruction in flood-affected areas of Balochistan. The Senate Standing Committee on Planning reviewed the funding needs and directed that no new motorway projects be initiated until the M6 is completed. The committee also urged the government to begin construction on the Hyderabad-Sukkur Motorway within the current fiscal year. Officials from the Planning Ministry briefed the committee on the “Uraan Pakistan” initiative and export targets, which are boldly projected to reach $60 billion in the next five years. However, senators were dissatisfied with the lack of concrete details on implementation. One senator questioned the government’s water management strategy, including plans for canal construction and Islamabad’s water supply. The committee directed the ministry to provide a comprehensive report on water and climate change policies in the next meeting. Additionally, the committee summoned the Ministries of Communications and Railways for the next session and requested an update on the K-4 water project’s funding and progress.