ISLAMABAD, April 17 (ABC): The federal government spent Rs73.5 billion on 148 projects in Balochistan under PSDP 2025-26 by the end of March 2026.
According to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the government allocated Rs206 billion for these projects in 2025-26. The total approved cost stands at Rs1.365 trillion. Out of 148 projects, 137 are ongoing and 11 are newly approved with a combined cost of Rs152.4 billion.
Ongoing projects dominate portfolio
The 137 ongoing projects form the bulk of the portfolio. They carry an approved cost of Rs1,212.1 billion. The government allocated Rs204.8 billion for these schemes in 2025-26. In contrast, the 11 new projects received a token allocation of Rs1.2 billion.
The Finance Division, in coordination with the Planning Commission, approved upfront one-line releases. These releases support executing ministries and divisions under a quarterly disbursement strategy for FY2025-26.
Sector-wise allocations
Sectoral data shows that the National Highway Authority leads the portfolio. It handles 19 projects worth Rs625.3 billion. Meanwhile, the Government of Balochistan manages 68 projects costing Rs233.9 billion through the Finance Division.
Other key contributors include the Water Resources Division, Power Division, and Higher Education Commission. Together, they reflect a diversified development approach.
Focus on provincial and regional development
Out of 148 projects, 80 are provincial in nature. These projects have a total cost of Rs413 billion, with Rs36 billion allocated for the current fiscal year. They aim to strengthen local infrastructure and improve service delivery across the province.
Regional development remains a key focus. In Gwadar, 22 projects with a total cost of Rs184 billion are underway. Similarly, Quetta hosts 15 projects costing Rs28 billion.
The Planning Commission stated that these initiatives will enhance connectivity and boost economic activity. They also aim to address long-standing development gaps in Balochistan in line with national priorities.
