NA flags fiscal and transparency concerns in Rs. 465 billion motorway project

During a National Assembly session, the Standing Committee on Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, chaired by Syed Abdul Kadir

Islamabad: During a National Assembly session, the Standing Committee on Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, chaired by Syed Abdul Kadir Gilani, MNA, raised serious concerns over financial constraints, prioritization of national development projects, and transparency in public spending. Lawmakers scrutinized the Rs. 465 billion Lahore Bahawalnagar Motorway Project, emphasizing the need for clear timelines, measurable milestones, and accountability for public resources.

The Committee reviewed the implementation of previous recommendations and was briefed by the Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Mr. Ahsan Iqbal, on the challenges confronting the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP). Officials highlighted that significant adjustments had been made to development allocations due to fiscal constraints, forcing prioritization decisions to ensure continuity of critical national projects. Lawmakers expressed concern that budgetary limitations could affect the timely completion and quality of ongoing infrastructure initiatives.

The Committee also considered two legislative proposals: the Public Private Partnership Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2025 and the General Statistics (Reorganization) (Amendment) Bill, 2025. While acknowledging the technical necessity of these amendments, members noted that certain provisions required further examination. As a result, the General Statistics bill was deferred for additional review.

A particularly contentious discussion centered on the Federal Government’s takeover of the Lahore Bahawalnagar Motorway Project. Members stressed that such high value projects must maintain a balanced approach regarding national infrastructure priorities. Concerns were raised regarding transparency, fund allocation, and the need for detailed reporting to Parliament to facilitate effective oversight. The Committee deferred the final discussion on this matter to the next meeting, directing relevant agencies to provide definitive timelines and measurable implementation milestones.

The Committee also reviewed infrastructure projects across other regions, including the status of the bridge project between Peer Mahal and Mian Channu. Members emphasized timely execution and the importance of keeping local communities informed about project progress and expected completion schedules.

During the session, the report of the Sub Committee, presented by Convener Syed Sami ul Hassan Gillani, MNA, was adopted after due deliberation. Members directed the Ministry to extend full support on matters related to the Pakistan Infrastructure Development Company Limited (PIDCL), ensuring informed consideration of projects under its purview. Lawmakers reiterated their commitment to equitable, evidence based planning and efficient utilization of public resources.

The meeting was attended by MNAs including Major (R) Tahir Iqbal, Syed Sami-ul-Hassan Gillani, Ms. Naz Baloch, Ms. Izbal Zehri (via Zoom), Malik Sohail Khan (via Zoom), Mr. Farhan Chishti, with the mover of the agenda item Syed Naveed Qamar present. Senior officials from the Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives were also in attendance to provide detailed briefings.