Home Blog Page 20

Govt plans Rs9.8bn footwear hub to attract foreign investment

Web Editor
-
0
Govt plans Rs9.8bn footwear hub to attract foreign investment

ISLAMABAD, July 06 (ABC): The government plans to establish a Rs9.8 billion footwear industrial hub near Lahore to attract foreign investment.

According to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the Ministry of Industries and Production will sponsor the project. The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) will serve as the lead executing agency.

The Board of Investment (BoI) and provincial industry departments will act as lead partners.

Hub to support footwear industry

Pakistan’s footwear sector has technical capability. However, most production remains concentrated in informal and semi-organised units, particularly around Lahore.

The country lacks a dedicated footwear industrial zone. As a result, manufacturers face fragmented production, high logistics costs, limited technology upgrading and weak capacity to attract large-scale investment.

The planned hub will address these gaps by creating a purpose-built industrial platform. It will bring investment, technology, compliance services and common infrastructure together in one place.

Project cost and timeline

The project aims to establish a specialised footwear manufacturing hub near the Lahore cluster. It will provide a compliance-ready platform for technology adoption, production expansion and private investment.

The total Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) requirement stands at Rs9.8 billion, with no foreign exchange component.

The government has proposed Rs280 million for FY2026-27, Rs5.32 billion for FY2027-28, Rs2.8 billion for FY2028-29 and Rs1.4 billion for FY2029-30.

The project is expected to be completed over five years.

Modern infrastructure and technology

The scope of work includes feasibility studies, site selection and master planning.

It also includes internal roads, boundary walls, electricity distribution networks, gas supply, water and sanitation facilities, drainage systems, common utility buildings, green spaces, effluent management systems and common facility areas.

A major component will focus on technology adoption. The government plans to establish a technology demonstration centre equipped with modern cutting lines, injection moulding equipment and automated stitching machinery.

This centre will support technology transfer to occupant firms. It will also help manufacturers move towards higher-value and export-oriented production.

Shared facilities for manufacturers

The project also proposes shared testing and quality control laboratories.

In addition, the hub will provide storage for chemical and material inputs, safety facilities, buyer meeting spaces, showroom facilities and other common services.

These shared facilities will reduce costs for manufacturers and improve compliance with buyer requirements.

Implementation and oversight

Under the implementation plan, SMEDA will lead project design, procurement and technical coordination.

The BoI will handle investor facilitation, allotment policy development, incentive packages, registration and one-window services for hub occupants.

Meanwhile, provincial industry departments will coordinate land acquisition, provincial approvals and interaction with local government.

A high-level steering committee will provide executive oversight. It will include the Ministry of Industries and Production, SMEDA, BoI and the provincial government.

Expected impact on exports

The expected outcomes include a fully developed and operational footwear industrial hub, organised industrial plots and shared facilities.

The project also aims to increase private investment, expand production capacity, improve access to technology and compliance services, and support footwear export growth targets.

چین کی ترقی کا راز: مضبوط میرٹ سسٹم

Web Editor
-
0
چین کی ترقی کا راز: مضبوط میرٹ سسٹم

پاکستان کو درپیش اصل بحران کیا ہے؟ ڈاکٹر عابد سلہری کی ویلتھ پاکستان سے خصوصی گفتگو

Web Editor
-
0
پاکستان کو درپیش اصل بحران کیا ہے؟ ڈاکٹر عابد سلہری کی ویلتھ پاکستان سے خصوصی گفتگو

The Power of Courage

Web Editor
-
0
The Power of Courage

By Abdul Qadir

Some athletes become legends because of their records. Others become icons because of the values they represent. Virat Kohli belongs to both categories. His career is not only a story of runs, centuries, and victories. It is also a story of discipline, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Long before he became one of the greatest batters of modern cricket, Virat Kohli was simply a young boy chasing a dream.

A Dream That Began in Delhi

Born on 5 November 1988 in Delhi, Virat Kohli joined the West Delhi Cricket Academy at the age of nine. Alongside his studies, he spent countless hours developing his cricket skills.

His dedication quickly produced results. In 2002, he earned selection for Delhi’s Under-15 team. Four years later, he became part of India’s Under-19 squad.

These achievements marked only the beginning of an extraordinary journey.

A Tragedy That Revealed His Character

One of the defining moments of Kohli’s life came in December 2006.

While representing Delhi in the Ranji Trophy, he received devastating news. His father had suffered a fatal heart attack during the night.

Most people would have walked away from cricket under such circumstances. Kohli made a different choice.

After informing his coach, Rajkumar Sharma, he returned to the field the next morning and scored a crucial 90 runs for his team.

That innings was not just about cricket. It demonstrated remarkable mental strength and an extraordinary sense of responsibility.

Failure Became His Greatest Teacher

Success did not arrive overnight.

When Kohli entered international cricket, he experienced difficult periods. His early Test performances failed to meet expectations. Likewise, the 2012 Indian Premier League proved disappointing.

Instead of blaming others, he looked inward.

In later interviews, Kohli admitted that his lifestyle did not match his ambitions. He realised that elite performance required elite discipline. Consequently, he completely transformed his diet, fitness routine, and daily habits.

That decision changed his career.

His transformation soon became one of the greatest examples of professionalism in modern sport.

Leadership Changed Indian Cricket

When Mahendra Singh Dhoni stepped down as Test captain, Kohli inherited a talented team. However, he also inherited the responsibility of changing its mindset.

He encouraged aggressive cricket, demanded higher fitness standards, and expected every player to compete fearlessly.

Under his captaincy, India reached the No. 1 position in the ICC Test rankings and remained there for 42 consecutive months. The team also achieved historic overseas victories, including its first-ever Test series win in Australia during the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Kohli believed that leadership begins with personal accountability.

He often said that leaders must first discipline themselves before asking others to improve.

Fitness Became His Identity

Perhaps Kohli’s greatest contribution to Indian cricket extends beyond batting.

He transformed the team’s fitness culture.

His commitment inspired teammates to improve their physical conditioning and professionalism. Today, fitness standards in Indian cricket are significantly higher than they were a decade ago.

Kohli proved that talent alone is never enough. Consistent success requires daily discipline.

Mental Strength Defined His Career

Every great athlete experiences setbacks.

Between November 2020 and September 2022, Kohli endured one of the toughest phases of his career. For nearly three years, he failed to score an international century.

Criticism intensified with every innings.

Yet Kohli remained honest about his struggles. He openly discussed his mental health and admitted that he was feeling emotionally exhausted.

Instead of giving up, he continued training with the same commitment that had defined his career.

Eventually, the runs returned.

His comeback reminded the sporting world that setbacks are temporary when determination remains constant.

The Chase Master

Few cricketers have mastered pressure like Virat Kohli.

His ability to chase difficult targets has produced some of cricket’s most memorable innings. Among them, his unbeaten performance against Pakistan in the 2022 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup stands out as one of the finest.

With India requiring 28 runs from the final eight deliveries, victory appeared almost impossible. However, Kohli’s calmness and belief transformed the match into a historic win.

Moments like these explain why many fans consider him one of cricket’s greatest finishers.

A Legacy Beyond Statistics

Virat Kohli retired from Test cricket in May 2025 after scoring more than 9,000 runs and 30 Test centuries.

However, numbers alone cannot define his legacy.

He inspired young athletes to value discipline over shortcuts, fitness over excuses, and hard work over talent alone. He showed that greatness demands constant self-improvement and the courage to confront failure.

His influence extends beyond cricket because his journey offers lessons for students, professionals, and anyone striving to achieve excellence.

Conclusion

Virat Kohli’s story is ultimately a lesson in perseverance.

He experienced personal tragedy, professional setbacks, public criticism, and immense expectations. Yet he continued moving forward through discipline, resilience, and self-belief.

Perhaps his own words best capture the philosophy behind his remarkable career:

“Until you are satisfied with your hard work and, most importantly, your intent was right, everything will be fine.”

That mindset, more than any record or trophy, may become Virat Kohli’s greatest legacy.

Noise Pollution

Zahid Dilwash
-
0
Noise Pollution

Turbat is known for its rich culture, warm hospitality, and growing urban development. However, another trend is growing just as rapidly—noise pollution. Every day, the city becomes louder, making it increasingly difficult for residents to enjoy a peaceful life.

Noise is no longer just an inconvenience. It has become a serious public health and quality-of-life issue that deserves urgent attention.

Traffic Has Become the Biggest Source of Noise

Traffic is the main contributor to noise pollution in Turbat.

Cars, buses, trucks, wagons, motorcycles, and rickshaws fill the roads throughout the day. Many vehicles produce excessive noise because of damaged or modified silencers. Continuous horn honking makes the situation even worse.

Heavy vehicles often generate noise levels between 75 and 90 decibels. Motorcycles and rickshaws can be even louder. Vehicles fitted with modified exhaust systems may produce extremely high noise levels that disturb nearby residents. Aircraft passing over the city also add to the overall noise burden.

The result is a city where silence has become increasingly rare.

Loud Music Adds to the Problem

Traffic is not the only source of noise.

Many hotels and restaurants play music through loudspeakers at high volume. Some buses, cars, and wagons also use powerful sound systems while travelling through busy streets.

These sounds continue from morning until late at night. Consequently, people living near markets and main roads struggle to find peace even inside their homes.

Entertainment should never come at the cost of public comfort.

Noise Pollution Is a Health Risk

Many people treat noise as a minor annoyance. However, medical experts have long warned that excessive noise can seriously affect human health.

Continuous exposure to loud sounds may increase stress, disturb sleep, reduce concentration, and contribute to hearing problems. It can also trigger headaches, anxiety, and fatigue.

Children often find it difficult to study in noisy surroundings. Likewise, elderly people and patients need quiet environments for rest and recovery. When cities become excessively noisy, everyone’s quality of life suffers.

Residents Are Paying the Price

People across Turbat increasingly complain about the constant noise around them.

Many residents say they cannot rest properly after work because loud traffic and music continue late into the evening. Families living near busy roads experience interrupted sleep, while students struggle to concentrate on their studies.

Although noise affects everyone, children, older adults, and people with health conditions often suffer the most.

A peaceful home should not be a luxury.

Authorities Must Take Immediate Action

The solution is neither expensive nor complicated. It simply requires proper enforcement of existing rules and greater public awareness.

The district administration and traffic police should strictly enforce laws against excessive vehicle noise. Authorities should also inspect defective silencers and take action against illegal vehicle modifications.

In addition, hotels and restaurants should comply with reasonable limits on loudspeaker use. Public transport operators should also avoid playing excessively loud music while carrying passengers.

At the same time, awareness campaigns can encourage drivers to reduce unnecessary horn honking and respect residential areas.

A Quieter Turbat Is Possible

Every citizen has the right to live in a peaceful environment.

Reducing noise pollution will improve public health, support students, protect vulnerable groups, and make Turbat a more pleasant place to live. Small actions, when consistently enforced, can make a significant difference.

The people of Turbat are not asking for extraordinary measures. They simply want quieter streets, peaceful neighbourhoods, and a healthier environment for their families.

The authorities now have an opportunity to act before noise pollution becomes an even greater challenge. A quieter Turbat is not an impossible dream—it is an achievable goal if both citizens and government work together.

Balochistan’s Healthcare Crisis

Sassi Nasir Ali
-
0
Balochistan’s Healthcare Crisis

Turbat is the second-largest city in Balochistan. It serves hundreds of thousands of people across Kech District and nearby areas. Yet its main public healthcare facility, Civil Hospital Turbat, struggles to provide even basic medical services.

A government hospital should offer hope during a medical emergency. Instead, many families arrive at Civil Hospital Turbat only to discover that the healthcare system has already failed them.

The problems are not new. Residents have raised concerns for years. Reports have highlighted the shortcomings repeatedly. However, meaningful improvements remain limited. As a result, patients continue to pay the price.

Ambulance Shortage Costs Precious Time

One of the most serious problems is the shortage of ambulances.

Medical emergencies demand immediate action. Heart attacks, road accidents, severe burns, and pregnancy complications cannot wait. Every minute can make the difference between life and death.

However, Civil Hospital Turbat has too few ambulances to meet public demand. Many families must arrange private transport or rely on friends and relatives to move critically ill patients.

The issue has received public attention before. In April 2025, The Express Tribune published a letter stating that Turbat urgently needed a functional ambulance service for emergency cases. Earlier, in January 2024, reports also warned that the limited ambulance fleet could delay life-saving treatment.

Unfortunately, these warnings have not produced the improvements that local communities expected.

Shortage of Doctors Leaves Patients Waiting

The shortage of doctors remains another major concern.

Patients arrive with injuries, infections, diabetes, or other serious illnesses. Yet many complain that doctors are unavailable during duty hours. Consequently, people spend hours waiting without receiving treatment.

Those who have financial resources often travel to Quetta or Karachi for specialised care. However, many families simply cannot afford the cost of travel and accommodation. They have no option except to wait.

Healthcare should never depend on a person’s financial status or place of residence.

Equal Treatment Must Replace Preferential Access

Healthcare should treat every patient equally.

However, many residents believe that personal influence often determines who receives treatment first. Patients who have connections reportedly bypass long queues, while others continue waiting despite arriving much earlier.

Older patients, daily wage workers, and children often bear the greatest burden of these delays.

Whether perception or reality, such practices damage public trust in government healthcare institutions. Every patient deserves equal treatment based on medical need rather than personal influence.

Poor Hospital Infrastructure Adds to Patients’ Suffering

The hospital’s physical condition also requires urgent attention.

Many wards lack enough beds, chairs, and basic equipment. Families frequently remain beside patients for long hours under difficult conditions. Cleanliness also remains a concern in several areas of the hospital.

During summer, the situation becomes even more challenging.

Turbat experiences some of Pakistan’s highest temperatures, often exceeding 45°C and occasionally approaching 50°C. Despite these extreme conditions, many patients reportedly face inadequate cooling due to limited air conditioning and non-functional fans.

A hospital should provide comfort during illness. Instead, extreme heat often makes recovery even more difficult.

Serious Emergencies Demand Better Facilities

The need for specialised healthcare facilities has also become evident during major emergencies.

Many residents still remember the tragic gas cylinder explosion in Shapuk village in 2020. Several victims suffered severe burn injuries. Reports at the time highlighted the limited availability of specialised burn treatment facilities in Turbat, forcing critically injured patients to be transferred elsewhere.

That tragedy raised important questions about emergency preparedness in southern Balochistan. Those questions still deserve answers today.

Balochistan Needs Greater Investment in Healthcare

The challenges at Civil Hospital Turbat reflect wider healthcare problems across Balochistan.

The province covers nearly 44 percent of Pakistan’s land area. It is rich in natural resources and contributes significantly to the national economy. Despite this, many districts continue to face shortages of hospitals, doctors, specialist services, and modern medical equipment.

Access to healthcare should not depend on geography. Citizens living in Turbat deserve the same quality of medical care as those living in larger cities.

The Time for Action Is Now

Improving Civil Hospital Turbat does not require impossible solutions. It requires political commitment and effective administration.

The provincial government should increase funding for emergency ambulance services. Authorities must ensure that doctors remain available during duty hours. Hospital infrastructure requires urgent upgrades, including clean wards, reliable electricity, proper cooling systems, functional medical equipment, and improved sanitation.

Equally important, hospitals must ensure transparent patient management so that treatment depends on medical urgency rather than personal connections.

Conclusion

Civil Hospital Turbat represents far more than one struggling institution. It reflects the broader healthcare challenges facing Balochistan.

Every citizen deserves timely emergency care, qualified doctors, clean hospitals, and equal access to treatment. These are not luxuries. They are basic public services that every government has a responsibility to provide.

The people of Turbat have waited long enough. Their concerns have been documented repeatedly. Now those concerns must finally be translated into meaningful action.

Healthcare cannot remain another promise waiting to be fulfilled.

The Legacy of Imran Khan

Zahid Dilwash
-
0
The Legacy of Imran Khan

Imran Ahmad Khan Niazi is one of the most influential figures in Pakistan’s modern history. He has achieved success as a cricketer, philanthropist, and politician. His journey from the cricket field to the Prime Minister’s Office has inspired millions. While opinions about his politics differ, his impact on Pakistan remains significant.

Born on 5 October 1952 in Lahore, Imran Khan received his early education at Aitchison College. He later studied at the Royal Grammar School in Worcester, England. He graduated from Keble College, University of Oxford, with a degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics. His education and leadership qualities prepared him for a remarkable public career.

World Cup Victory Made Imran Khan a National Hero

Imran Khan first earned worldwide recognition through cricket. He became one of Pakistan’s greatest all-rounders and one of the country’s most respected captains.

His defining moment came in 1992 when he led Pakistan to its first and only Cricket World Cup title. The victory united the nation and created one of the most memorable moments in Pakistan’s sporting history.

His leadership also helped develop future cricket stars such as Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis. He promoted discipline, fitness, professionalism, and self-belief. As a result, he inspired an entire generation of young cricketers.

Philanthropy Became His Second Mission

After retiring from cricket, Imran Khan focused on public service instead of personal comfort.

The death of his mother, Shaukat Khanum, from cancer inspired him to establish the Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre in Lahore in 1994. The hospital was built mainly through public donations. Today, it provides quality cancer treatment to patients from across Pakistan, including thousands who cannot afford medical care.

Later, he founded Namal College, now Namal University, in Mianwali. The institution aims to provide quality higher education to talented students from rural and underprivileged backgrounds.

These projects continue to benefit society regardless of political differences.

Entering Politics Was a Long Journey

In 1996, Imran Khan founded Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). His vision centred on justice, accountability, transparency, and a welfare state.

However, political success did not come quickly. For many years, PTI remained a small political party with limited representation in Parliament. Nevertheless, Imran Khan continued his campaign across Pakistan.

Gradually, his message attracted growing public support. Young voters, in particular, responded to his calls for political reform and accountability.

Becoming Prime Minister

The 2018 general elections marked a turning point. PTI emerged as the largest party, and Imran Khan became Prime Minister in August 2018.

During his tenure, his government introduced welfare programmes such as the Ehsaas Programme for low-income families. It also expanded health coverage in several provinces and promoted environmental initiatives, including large-scale tree plantation campaigns.

On the international stage, Imran Khan spoke about climate change, Islamophobia, regional peace, and Pakistan’s foreign policy priorities. His speeches at global forums received attention both at home and abroad.

A Divisive but Influential Political Figure

Like every major political leader, Imran Khan’s performance remains the subject of debate.

His supporters believe he tried to strengthen institutions, improve governance, and reduce corruption. Critics, however, question parts of his economic management and political approach.

These differing opinions reflect the normal functioning of a democratic society.

Political Challenges After 2022

In April 2022, Imran Khan lost office through a parliamentary vote of no confidence. Since then, he has faced numerous legal cases and political challenges, including imprisonment.

His supporters describe these developments as politically motivated. Others argue that legal institutions should be allowed to function independently.

Regardless of political opinion, democratic principles require that every citizen, including a former prime minister, receives fair treatment, due process, and equal protection under the law.

Imran Khan’s Lasting Legacy

Imran Khan’s contributions extend far beyond politics.

He led Pakistan to its only Cricket World Cup title. He established institutions that continue to provide cancer treatment and higher education. He also transformed Pakistan’s political landscape by bringing millions of young people into the democratic process.

History will ultimately judge his political legacy. However, few people have influenced Pakistan in as many different fields as Imran Khan. His journey demonstrates determination, resilience, and a commitment to serving causes that he believes can improve the country.

Whether people support or oppose his politics, his place in Pakistan’s contemporary history is firmly established.

The Hidden Struggle

Web Editor
-
0
The Hidden Struggle

By Sharan Nadil

Education is the foundation of a prosperous society. It reduces poverty, creates opportunities, and drives economic growth. Islam places great importance on acquiring knowledge and encourages both men and women to seek education. Pakistan’s Constitution also guarantees free and compulsory education for every child between the ages of five and sixteen under Article 25-A. Despite these commitments, millions of girls in Pakistan still struggle to access quality education.

The debate is no longer about whether girls deserve education. Instead, the real question is why girls continue to face greater barriers than boys in 2026.

The Hidden Reality of Girls’ Education

The struggle for girls’ education often remains invisible. It rarely becomes national news, yet it affects millions of families every day.

In many households, boys prepare for school each morning without interruption. Girls, however, often begin the day by cooking, cleaning, fetching water, or caring for younger siblings. These responsibilities leave little time for study. As a result, many girls either attend school irregularly or drop out altogether.

This situation is common in rural areas of Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, and southern Punjab. Poor urban communities also face similar challenges.

Poverty Continues to Hold Girls Back

Poverty remains one of the biggest obstacles to girls’ education. Many families cannot afford school expenses for all their children. When parents must choose, they often prioritise their sons.

This decision reflects long-standing social attitudes rather than the abilities of girls. Many parents still see sons as future breadwinners, while daughters are viewed as future homemakers. However, research consistently shows that educating girls benefits entire families through higher incomes, better health, and improved education for the next generation.

Lack of Schools and Safety Concerns

Access to schools is another major challenge.

Many villages still lack nearby girls’ schools. Some students must travel several kilometres every day. Public transport is often unavailable, and parents naturally worry about their daughters’ safety.

The shortage of female teachers also discourages many families from sending girls to school. In addition, poor sanitation facilities and weak school infrastructure make education even less accessible.

Building more schools, recruiting female teachers, and improving transport can significantly increase girls’ enrolment.

Early Marriage Ends Many Educational Dreams

Early and forced marriage continues to interrupt girls’ education in many parts of Pakistan.

Many girls leave school after Class 9 or 10 because they are expected to marry. Once married, they usually take on household responsibilities that leave little opportunity to continue their education.

However, not every girl wants to marry at a young age. Many hope to become doctors, engineers, teachers, entrepreneurs, journalists, or scientists. They want careers, financial independence, and the opportunity to support their families.

Every girl deserves the right to decide her own future.

Cultural Attitudes Need to Change

Social attitudes also create barriers.

In some communities, people still see daughters as a responsibility rather than an investment. This mindset limits girls’ opportunities and weakens the country’s future.

Pakistan cannot achieve sustainable development while half of its population faces unequal educational opportunities. Every educated girl strengthens her family, her community, and the national economy.

Why Girls’ Education Matters for Pakistan

Girls’ education is not only a human rights issue. It is also an economic necessity.

Educated women participate more actively in the workforce. They earn higher incomes, improve family health, and invest more in their children’s education. Consequently, countries that educate girls experience faster economic growth and stronger social development.

Pakistan can unlock enormous economic potential by ensuring that every girl completes her education.

The Way Forward

Pakistan has made progress in increasing girls’ enrolment. Government programmes, development partners, and civil society organisations have expanded educational opportunities in many regions. Nevertheless, much more remains to be done.

The government should build more girls’ schools in underserved areas. It should recruit additional female teachers and improve school facilities. Safe transport, scholarships, and financial assistance can also help families keep their daughters in school.

At the same time, parents, teachers, religious scholars, community leaders, and the media must work together to change outdated attitudes about girls’ education.

Conclusion

Education is a constitutional right, a religious obligation, and a powerful tool for national development. Every girl deserves equal access to quality education and the freedom to pursue her dreams.

Pakistan cannot build a stronger future by educating only its sons. It must also empower its daughters.

The hidden struggle of girls’ education should no longer remain hidden. By removing barriers and creating equal opportunities, Pakistan can unlock the potential of millions of girls and move closer to a more prosperous, inclusive, and educated society.

Govt to spend Rs1.6bn to boost weather forecasting, early warning systems

Web Editor
-
0
Govt to spend Rs1.6bn to boost weather forecasting, early warning systems

ISLAMABAD, Jul 05 (ABC): Pakistan plans to strengthen weather forecasting, disaster preparedness and climate resilience through a series of projects and policy initiatives.

According to the Annual Plan 2026-27, a copy of which is available with Wealth Pakistan, the government has allocated Rs1.6 billion to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD). The funding will improve forecasting systems and strengthen disaster risk management.

Investment in forecasting infrastructure

The allocation includes Rs344 million for the proposed National Centre for Rainfall Enhancement. The centre will support water security, climate adaptation and agricultural productivity.

The government has also allocated Rs195 million for a weather surveillance radar in Multan and Rs5 million for a similar project in Sukkur. These projects will strengthen real-time weather monitoring and early warning systems.

In addition, the government has earmarked Rs1 billion for the Modernisation of Hydromet Services in Pakistan project. The initiative will upgrade hydrometeorological infrastructure, improve forecasting accuracy and strengthen climate-related data systems.

Climate resilience projects receive funding

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination is expected to receive Rs2.5 billion. Most of the funding will support forestry, biodiversity conservation, afforestation and ecosystem restoration.

Key initiatives include the Pakistan Climate Innovation and Green Growth Initiative. The programme will equip young people with green skills and support entrepreneurship through a Green Innovation Fund.

The government also plans to conduct a National Forest and Tree Cover Assessment. It will use remote sensing and machine learning technologies to improve forest monitoring and restoration planning.

Green initiatives and disaster preparedness

The government will also launch specialised projects under the Upscaling of Green Pakistan Programme. These include the Pollution Load Assessment Network for environmental monitoring in Islamabad, a Botanical Garden in the federal capital and conservation initiatives in the Margalla Hills National Park.

Furthermore, the plan promotes climate-smart agriculture, efficient water management, disaster risk reduction, green industrialisation, circular economy initiatives and domestic carbon market mechanisms. These measures aim to support sustainable economic growth while improving climate resilience.

Growing climate risks

The Annual Plan says Pakistan faces increasing exposure to climate-related disasters. Major floods in 2010, 2011, 2014, 2022 and 2025 caused extensive human and economic losses. They also damaged infrastructure and livelihoods across the country.

According to the World Bank’s 2022 report, Pakistan loses around $2 billion every year because of floods and earthquakes.

The report warns that cumulative losses could reach $250 billion by 2030 and $1.2 trillion by 2050. In a peak disaster year, damage in priority sectors could equal as much as 30% of GDP. The findings underline the urgent need to strengthen climate adaptation and disaster preparedness.

Rs 23.44bn Sukkur Barrage upgrade project to complete in Feb 2027

Web Editor
-
0
Rs 23.44bn Sukkur Barrage upgrade project to complete in Feb 2027

ISLAMABAD, Jul 05 (ABC): The Rs23.44 billion Sukkur Barrage rehabilitation and modernization project has reached 58% physical completion and remains on track for completion in February 2027.

According to official documents obtained by Wealth Pakistan, the project has also achieved 49% financial progress. The initiative aims to strengthen Sindh’s irrigation network and improve the long-term reliability of one of Pakistan’s most important water infrastructure assets.

Major rehabilitation work underway

A joint venture of China Road and Bridge Corporation and Hubei Shuizong Water Resources and Hydropower Construction Co. Ltd. is executing the Sukkur Barrage Improvement Project (SBIP/S1).

The original contract was valued at Rs17.07 billion. However, approved variation orders increased the project cost to Rs23.44 billion.

The authorities issued the Letter of Acceptance (LOA) on August 19, 2022. They signed the contract agreement on October 24, 2022, and began construction on February 24, 2023.

The project has a construction period of 1,460 days, excluding the 265-day Defects Notification Period (DNP).

Work progresses on key project components

Engineers are constructing cofferdams in multiple phases across 36 barrage gates in the river section and eight gates in the tail channel.

Meanwhile, teams are carrying out mechanical and electrical rehabilitation of 44 gates and hoists.

Civil engineering crews are repairing and strengthening 44 barrage bays, foundations and associated structures. These improvements will enhance the barrage’s operational safety and efficiency.

Workers are also dredging the left and right pockets, the approach channel and the tail channel. These activities will improve water flow and sediment management.

In addition, construction of project-related buildings and supporting facilities continues. Several structures are nearing completion, while work on the remaining buildings is progressing steadily.

Vital project for Sindh’s agriculture

The Sukkur Barrage remains one of Pakistan’s most important irrigation structures. It supplies water to millions of acres of agricultural land across Sindh.

According to the documents, the rehabilitation project will strengthen water regulation, improve the barrage’s structural resilience and ensure reliable irrigation supplies for the province’s agriculture sector for decades to come.

1...192021...69Page 20 of 69