Prime Minister Imran Khan approved what is believed to be a historic Rs446 billion development package and programme to uplift 14 districts of Sindh whilst pledging that the development of the region was amongst the priorities of his government.
Aimed at the socio-economic development of the districts, the package envisages the construction of Nai Gaj dam for the irrigation of 28,800 acres of land and the 306-kilometre long Sukkur-Hyderabad motorway. Under the scheme, rehabilitation of 200,000 acres of land will provide livelihood opportunities for the people.
The prime minister arrived in Sindh on a one-day visit where he announced the massive package. However, this time Chief Minister Sindh wasn’t alongside him, and deep animosity and mistrust remains between the Centre and the Sindh government. Addressing the ceremony, the premier pointed out that the money for the development package was being provided entirely by the federal government.
PM Imran, earlier in 2020, also announced a financial package worth Rs1.1 trillion for Karachi’s transformation that he said will address the chronic municipal and infrastructure issues. However, nothing has been implemented yet, and the blame game is going on. Planning Minister Asad Umar recently complained that the provincial government was creating hurdles in the implementation of development projects in the city.
It is difficult to disagree with PM Imran’s criticism of the PPP government’s neglect of Sindh. Karachi is considered the economic hub but has long been a victim of neglect. However, it is not just Karachi; Hyderabad, Larkana and Sukkur too are facing similar crises where urban decay is concerned, though the PPP insists it has worked wonders in the province.
The PPP has been ruling Sindh since the past twelve years. This is enough time for a provincial government to understand, evaluate and solve issues if it is able and competent. The fact is that Sindh cannot prosper until elected LG systems are put in place, answerable to voters at the local level.
It needs to be seen if this relief package will be implemented and projects will be completed on time. It is imperative that both sides keep their political difference aside so that residents can have a sigh of relief that their grievances have been finally answered.
