Govt committed to developing southern Balochistan: Asad Umar

ISLAMABAD: Federal Planning and Development Minister Asad Umar has reiterated that the PTI-led federal government was committed to the development of Balochistan, especially the Southern areas.

The statement came after he arrived in Khuzdar on a two-day visit to the southern districts of the province. Minister for Defence Production Zubaida Jalal, Deputy Speaker National Assembly, Qasim Suri, and secretary planning accompanied the minister.

Earlier, Prime Minister Imran Khan visited the province and said that Umar will hold consultations on a special package for the development of South Balochistan.

During the visit, the ministers were briefed about the on-going development projects in the Kalat Division. The ministers visited various sites in Khuzdar and Awaran.

On the occasion, Asad Umar informed that the allocations of over Rs80 billion in the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) during the current year, were a reflection of the Centre’s commitment to the province. “The government will ensure that the budgeted funds were fully and effectively utilised,” he added.

The federal and provincial governments are working closely together on the plan, which is likely to include infrastructure improvements, IT connectivity, interventions for increasing agricultural, and horticultural opportunities. Proposals for attracting private sector involvement are also being considered.