ISLAMABAD, April 9 (ABC): Nine major road projects in Balochistan under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) have utilized Rs85.49 billion out of a total allocation of Rs191.67 billion under the Public Sector Development Program (PSDP) from 2022-23 to 2025-26, according to an official document available with Wealth Pakistan.
The projects are currently underway in the western zone of Balochistan. Their financial and physical progress varies across different sections.
Major projects account for bulk of spending
The Khuzdar–Kuchlak N-25 (330 km) project holds the largest share among all schemes. Authorities allocated Rs60.6 billion for this project, of which Rs28.98 billion has already been utilized.
Two other major sections — Karachi–Kararo & Wadh–Khuzdar N-25 (273 km) and Kararo–Wadh and Kuchlak–Chaman N-25 (187 km) — have each received allocations of Rs33 billion. So far, expenditures stand at Rs8.69 billion and Rs7.67 billion, respectively.
These projects form a significant part of the overall road infrastructure plan under CPEC in the province.
Advanced sections show strong progress
The Awaran–Naal M-8 (168 km) section shows notable progress. It has utilized Rs19.01 billion out of its total allocation of Rs23.03 billion. This makes it one of the most advanced projects in terms of financial utilization.
Other ongoing schemes also show steady progress. The Hoshab–Awaran M-8 (146 km) project has consumed Rs5.25 billion out of Rs11.29 billion.
Similarly, the Nokundi–Mashkel (103 km) section has recorded spending of Rs4.85 billion from its allocation of Rs7.36 billion.
The Quetta Western Bypass N-25 (22.7 km) project has utilized Rs3.27 billion against a total allocation of Rs5.91 billion.
Remaining projects continue gradual execution
The Basima–Khuzdar N-30 (106 km) project has spent Rs3.66 billion out of Rs5.90 billion allocated for it.
Meanwhile, the Zhob–Kuchlak N-50 (298 km) section has utilized Rs4.11 billion from its total allocation of Rs11.58 billion.
All these projects remain under execution, with spending levels reflecting different stages of progress.
Connectivity improvement remains key objective
These road projects aim to improve connectivity across Balochistan, especially along the western route of CPEC.
Better road infrastructure is expected to facilitate trade and reduce travel time. It will also improve access to remote areas and support regional economic integration.
The document indicates that development work continues across all sections, with progress linked to fund utilization and project execution timelines.