Balochistan Utilizes 90% of Development Budget, Aims for 100% by Fiscal Year-End: Government Spokesperson

Quetta:Balochistan Government Spokesperson Shahid Rind announced that the provincial government has utilized 90% of its development budget during its first year in office. Speaking at a media briefing at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat on Saturday, he expressed hope that the remaining 10% would be released before the end of the fiscal year.

Rind emphasized that the government has taken effective measures to fulfill its promises to the public by executing development projects through the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP). The allocated funds have been efficiently utilized across key sectors such as education, healthcare, public health engineering, fisheries, agriculture, and energy to ensure the timely completion of projects and delivery of benefits to the people.

He compared the performance with previous governments, stating that earlier administrations could only utilize 50% to 60% of the development funds. In contrast, the current government has already spent 90% of the allocated Rs. 200 billion development budget. He also noted that 20% of the budget was allocated to agriculture, 18% to road development, and 10% to education.

Rind further revealed that the federal government has approved the launch of the “People’s Rail Service” from Kuchlak to Saryab, aimed at improving travel convenience for passengers. The project includes the restoration of five existing railway stations and the construction of two new ones.

He highlighted that the upcoming provincial budget is being prepared with input from both the government and opposition, making Balochistan the only province to take such an inclusive approach. The next budget will focus on creating employment opportunities and launching development-driven initiatives.

Addressing a question on the amendments to the Anti-Terrorism Act, Rind defended the move, stating that extraordinary measures are required to combat terrorism. He clarified that all political parties were present during the legislation process, and the amendments aim to address the long-standing issue of missing persons.

Regarding the law and order situation, he acknowledged that security remains a concern but assured that law enforcement agencies are reviewing and enhancing security measures. On the recovery of the abducted Assistant Commissioner of Tump, he said no significant progress has been made yet, but efforts are ongoing for his safe recovery.