Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has commenced budget meetings to finalize development proposals and their allocations for the next financial year, alongside launching an austerity drive to conserve funds for vital development projects.
Finalizing the Provincial Budget
The provincial government is in the final stages of drafting proposals for the upcoming budget, with the federal government scheduled to announce the budget for the fiscal year 2025-26 on June 2. During separate meetings at the CM House with the Finance and Planning & Development departments, CM Shah finalized the Annual Development Programme (ADP) and stressed the urgent need to prioritize the rehabilitation of infrastructure damaged by floods.
Key Focus Areas for Development
In the meetings, CM Shah emphasized the importance of reducing non-development expenditures and reallocating those funds toward development projects. He specifically highlighted the inclusion of canal and watercourse lining projects in the new development schemes, as well as the need to focus on agricultural growth by introducing schemes to improve output and productivity in the sector. “It is time to pay special attention to the agricultural sector,” he remarked.
Commitment to Health and Education
The Chief Minister reaffirmed the provincial government’s ongoing commitment to improving healthcare facilities across Sindh. In the education sector, he stressed the urgent need to upgrade primary schools to the elementary level and give special attention to both formal and non-formal education systems. CM Shah also called for introducing new schemes in technical and higher education and promoting sports and healthy activities for youth.
Expanding the ADP and Fiscal Prudence
CM Shah called for expanding the ADP with new schemes, focusing on fiscal prudence to ensure funds are used efficiently. He advocated for cost-saving measures, emphasizing that any savings should be redirected to fund development activities.
Key Development Projects
Several major projects have been identified for accelerated funding in the next fiscal year. Notable projects include the K-IV water supply project and the Shahrah-e-Bhutto expressway, a 38.75-kilometre route designed to improve urban connectivity and ease congestion. Ongoing transport projects in Karachi will also continue to receive attention.
Water Supply and Drainage Schemes
A day before the budget meetings, CM Shah had announced that water supply and drainage schemes would be incorporated into the provincial ADP for fiscal year 2025-26. These schemes will focus on addressing water supply and drainage issues, particularly in flood-affected areas. Additionally, projects centered around solar energy and both industrial and agricultural development will be included in the ADP.
Reconstruction of Flood-Damaged Schools
The Chief Minister also highlighted the reconstruction of schools damaged by floods as a top priority in the upcoming development plan. This initiative will help rebuild educational infrastructure, ensuring children’s education continues despite the setbacks caused by recent natural disasters.
Development Programme and Fiscal Outlook
CM Shah provided an update on the scale of this year’s development programme, noting that the ADP was worth Rs493 billion, with Rs55 billion allocated under the district ADP. With 4,644 development schemes currently underway, it is expected that 1,812 of them will be completed by the end of June 2025.
Conclusion: Looking Ahead
Through these budgetary measures and the focus on austerity, Sindh’s government is working towards creating a sustainable and prosperous future. With priorities set on infrastructure development, agriculture, healthcare, education, and fiscal responsibility, Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah is ensuring that the provincial budget will drive growth and development across Sindh in the coming year.
