Pakistan approves rs5.7bn sports package for SAF Games

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has taken a major step towards hosting the upcoming South Asian Games, with authorities approving a Rs5.7 billion development package to upgrade sports infrastructure and improve venues across the country.

The Central Development Working Party (CDWP) approved the comprehensive package during a meeting chaired by Planning Commission Deputy Chairman and Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal.

The meeting reviewed several development schemes aimed at improving sports facilities and ensuring that venues are ready to meet the requirements of the regional multi-sport event.

A key component of the package is the upgradation of major facilities at the Pakistan Sports Complex in Islamabad, alongside improvements to sports infrastructure in other cities.

Officials said the investment is designed not only to prepare venues for the South Asian Games but also to improve their quality, functionality and overall readiness. The upgrades are expected to provide athletes and participating teams with better facilities during the competition.

The approval has been described as an important milestone in Pakistan’s preparations for what is expected to be a major regional sporting event.

Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC) Secretary Mohiuddin Ahmad Wani welcomed the approval, calling the Rs5.7 billion package a significant achievement for Pakistan’s sports sector.

Wani credited the prime minister and the Planning Commission for their leadership and support in strengthening the country’s sports infrastructure.

He said the investment would serve a purpose beyond the Games themselves by creating a lasting legacy for Pakistan’s sporting community.

According to Wani, the comprehensive renovation of the Pakistan Sports Complex and other facilities around the country would help provide athletes and visiting teams with quality sporting venues. More importantly, he said, the upgraded facilities would continue benefiting Pakistani athletes after the conclusion of the Games.

The government now faces the task of ensuring that the approved projects are completed on schedule.

Wani said the IPC Ministry would work closely with the Planning Commission and other relevant stakeholders to ensure timely implementation and completion of the schemes.

The projects will be carried out according to the requirements of the South Asian Games, with officials expected to monitor progress closely as preparations move forward.

For Pakistan, the infrastructure investment represents more than preparations for a single tournament. If completed effectively, the upgraded venues could strengthen the country’s sporting ecosystem and give athletes access to improved facilities for years to come.

The Rs5.7 billion approval therefore marks an important phase in Pakistan’s preparations, shifting the focus from planning to the practical work of getting venues competition-ready.