PESHAWAR: Funds of Rs 160 billion have been approved for KPK development projects.
According to the details, a high-level meeting took place between a developmental council representing tribal districts and prominent tribal elders, attended by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.
The discussion centered on the current situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, focusing on law and order and essential developmental projects.
During the exchange, the tribal elders expressed their gratitude to the Prime Minister for dedicating special attention to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s circumstances and pledged their full cooperation in resolving the issues.
They highlighted that the province’s people had been burdened with problems for the past 13 years, and finally, a collective sigh of relief was being felt in KP, with celebrations taking place.
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif stated that the tribal elders are welcomed with deep gratitude, acknowledging their unwavering support for Pakistan and their significant sacrifices in the war against terrorism.
He noted that if situations within the province had been better, the need for an emergency might not have arisen, as terrorism in KP had reached its peak.
He emphasized that crucial decisions were made to ensure peace and order in the province. “As part of the initiatives to ensure peace and order, Rs 160 billion will be provided for developmental work,” the Prime Minister announced.
He detailed instructions given to the Governor and Chief Secretary in Islamabad regarding wheat supplies, police training, CTD, and Safe City projects, assuring that all the province’s needs would be met.
The Prime Minister emphasized that instructions were given to rapidly complete projects, promising to remove obstructions to federal and provincial initiatives.
He expressed serious concern over the deteriorating law and order and rampant corruption in the province, stating that resources meant for the people are being lost to corruption.
He highlighted major scandals, including a Rs 100 billion drinking water issue and Rs 37 billion corruption in the Kohistan scandal. Claiming the province’s resources were looted over the past 13 years, he vowed that every single penny belonging to the public would reach them.
Underdevelopment in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), including its newly merged tribal districts, faces significant challenges of underdevelopment, often attributed to decades of instability, conflict, and geographic marginalization.
Basic infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities lag behind other parts of the country.
The legacy of militancy and subsequent military operations disrupted social services and destroyed infrastructure, leaving a substantial gap to be filled. Limited industrial presence and investment contribute to lower economic growth and employment.
Addressing these deep-rooted disparities requires sustained focus and substantial resources, especially as the newly merged districts integrate.
ALSO READ: Governor’s Rule in KP: Development Work Picks Up Pace in Province
The recent government assurance of Rs 160 billion for development aims to directly address these systemic issues, funding critical projects and fostering peace and prosperity for the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
