ISLAMABAD: The efforts of the federal government to advance the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects have yielded significant results, as indicated by the arrival of over 637,124 metric tons of cargo at the Gwadar deep seaport since 2022.
According to the details, this figure is significantly higher compared to the 166,207 metric tons received between 2018 and 2021.
Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, shared this information during a meeting held to review the progress of projects in Gwadar.
The meeting was attended by officials from relevant ministries, provincial representatives from Balochistan, and the Chairman of the Gwadar Port Authority (GPA).
As per the details, the meeting highlighted that since the current government assumed power in April 2022, the CPEC has been revitalized after being neglected by the previous administration.
Furthermore, several major projects in Gwadar, including the Gwadar Power Plant, the distribution of 2000 boat engines to fishermen, Khuzdar-Panjgur Transmission line, the New Gwadar International Airport, China-Pak Friendship Hospital, China-Pak Technical and Vocational Institute, Gwadar East-bay Expressway, Gwadar Free Zone, and Gwadar Port, are progressing well and will contribute to the development of the region.
The minister also emphasized that the incumbent government has prioritized neglected areas such as water and electricity projects in Gwadar, with significant progress already achieved.
Furthermore, the budget for 2023-24 has doubled the allocation of development funds for Balochistan, demonstrating the federal government’s commitment to uplift the province.
In the past three months, eight projects focused on education, healthcare, and social sectors have been completed, benefiting the people of Balochistan.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s dedication to continuing uplifting the province and address the sense of deprivation felt by its residents.
In addition, the minister emphasized the importance of a stable electricity supply, including the provision of 100 megawatts from Iran, to enhance the lives and business activities in Gwadar.
He also directed the Quetta Electric Supply Company (QESCO) to prioritize bill recovery and ensure a smooth electricity supply in Gwadar while raising public awareness about the importance of paying utility bills.
Source: APP
