Pakistan’s Development Projects Receive Green Light: CDWP Approves initiatives Worth Billions
Islamabad – Pakistan’s Central development Working party (CDWP) has given its approval to nine new development projects totaling Rs25.19 billion, signaling a significant push towards national development across multiple sectors. The declaration, made on Saturday, June 14, 2025, follows a meeting chaired by Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, where a total of ten projects with a cumulative cost of Rs35.86 billion were reviewed. Another project, a 16MW Hydropower Project, Nalter-III Gilgit, involving a cost of Rs10.671bn, was recommended to the Executive committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec) for approval.
Key Sectors Targeted for Development
The approved projects span critical sectors, including food and agriculture, higher education, information technology, power, and transport and communications. This diversified approach aims to address various developmental needs across the country. According to the World Bank, investing in these sectors is crucial for enduring economic growth and improved living standards in developing nations.
Did you Know? Pakistan’s agricultural sector contributes approximately 24% to the national GDP and employs nearly half of the country’s labor force.
Climate-Smart Agriculture
A significant portion of the investment, Rs990 million, is allocated to a “speed breeding platform” project focused on developing climate-smart hybrid crops. This initiative aims to enhance agricultural resilience and productivity in the face of changing weather patterns. Minister Iqbal emphasized the importance of engaging all stakeholders,including the private sector,in setting the research and seed development agenda.
Enhancements in Education and Technology
The higher education sector receives a boost with the approval of Rs3.538 billion for establishing the Dr. A.Q. Khan Institute of Materials and Emerging Sciences at quaid-e-Azam University. This institute will offer state-of-the-art education and research facilities, with technical assistance from the University of Cambridge, UK. Furthermore, Rs3.047 billion is earmarked for the digitalization of the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC), aiming to streamline recruitment processes and enhance transparency.
Pro Tip: Digital transformation in government services can significantly reduce processing times and improve citizen satisfaction.
Science and Technology Advancements
An amount of Rs3.385 billion has been approved for science and technology projects, specifically the NILOP-PIEAS Emerging Technologies Center. This investment underscores the importance of developing strong technological capabilities to meet the challenges of the digital and industrial revolutions 4.0 and 5.0.
Infrastructure Development Projects
The CDWP has also sanctioned four transport and communications projects focused on infrastructure development. These include:
- Widening and carpeting of the 28-kilometer Booni buzund Torkhow road in Upper Chitral (Rs1.894 billion).
- Construction of a 15.5-kilometer blacktop Northern Bypass road in Loralai (Rs3.828 billion).
- Extension of Margalla Highway from G.T.Road (N-5) to Motorway (M-1) within Punjab limits, spanning 2.5 kilometers (Rs7.106 billion).
- A feasibility study for the Trans-Afghan Rail connectivity from Kharlachi (Pakistan) to Mazar-e-Sharif (Afghanistan) via Logar, covering approximately 677 kilometers (Rs1.401 billion).
| Project type | Project Name | Approved Cost (Rs Billion) |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture | Speed Breeding Platform for Climate-Smart Hybrid Crops | 0.990 |
| Higher Education | Dr.A.Q. Khan Institute of materials and Emerging Sciences | 3.538 |
| Information Technology | Digitalization of FPSC Examination system | 3.047 |
| Science & technology | NILOP-PIEAS Emerging Technologies Centre | 3.385 |
| Transport & Communications | Booni Buzund Torkhow Road Widening | 1.894 |
| Transport & Communications | Northern Bypass road Construction | 3.828 |
| Transport & Communications | Margalla Highway Extension | 7.106 |
| Transport & Communications | Trans-Afghan Rail Feasibility Study | 1.401 |
The forum also cleared a concept paper related to the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training titled “Action to Strengthen Performance for Inclusive and Responsive Education”, funded by the World Bank.
Evergreen insights: Pakistan’s Development Landscape
Pakistan’s commitment to development projects reflects a broader strategy to enhance economic growth, improve social welfare, and strengthen its position in the global arena.Strategic investments in agriculture, education, and infrastructure are essential for long-term sustainability and prosperity. These projects align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),notably those related to poverty reduction,quality education,and infrastructure development. As Pakistan continues to navigate its development journey, these initiatives will play a crucial role in shaping its future.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pakistan’s development Projects
What is the role of the CDWP in Pakistan’s development process?
The CDWP plays a crucial role in evaluating and approving development projects, ensuring they align with national priorities and contribute to sustainable growth.
How do these projects contribute to Pakistan’s economy?
By investing in key sectors like agriculture, education, and infrastructure, these projects stimulate economic activity, create jobs, and improve the overall quality of life for citizens.
What impact will the climate-smart agriculture project have on food security?
The development of climate-smart hybrid crops will enhance agricultural resilience and productivity,contributing to improved food security in the face of climate change.
How will the digitalization of the FPSC benefit the government and citizens?
Digitalization will streamline recruitment processes, enhance transparency, and ensure that qualified individuals are appointed to government positions efficiently.
What are the potential benefits of the Trans-Afghan Rail project?
The Trans-Afghan Rail project could enhance regional connectivity, facilitate trade, and promote economic cooperation between Pakistan, Afghanistan, and other Central Asian countries.
What are your thoughts on these development projects? How do you think they will impact Pakistan’s future?
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