CM reviews Rs 45 bn SDGs Programme

KARACHI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 18th Apr, 2026) Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, while presiding over a meeting, reviewed progress on the Rs45 billion Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) programme, under which 1,082 schemes were launched, of which 928 have been approved, funds have been released for 895 schemes, Rs25.93 billion has been disbursed and an expenditure of Rs9.72 billion has been recorded so far.

The chief minister has already allocated Rs45 billion for development schemes under the Annual Development Programme (ADP) 2025–26.

The meeting, held at the CM House, was attended by Minister for Planning & Development and Irrigation Jam Khan Shoro, Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah, Chairman P&D Najam Shah, Secretary Finance Fayaz Jatoi, PSCM Agha Wasif and other senior officials.

The Chief Minister was informed that the allocation under the ADP Scheme would fund development initiatives aligned with SDGs, with a total estimated portfolio of over Rs89 billion. He was told that 50 per cent of the total cost of each scheme would be released during the current financial year, while the remaining funds would be allocated in 2026–27, ensuring completion within two years.

Murad Ali Shah directed that at least 50 per cent of all proposed schemes must focus on water supply and sewerage (WASH sector), terming access to clean water and sanitation as the “top priority” for the government. “Provision of safe drinking water and proper sanitation is fundamental to public health and human dignity. These sectors must receive the closest attention,” he said.

Mr Shah further directed that no standalone road schemes be included, and all projects must be comprehensive, realistic in cost, and aligned with actual ground requirements.

The meeting was told that schemes above Rs200 million would be approved by the Provincial Development Working Party (PDWP), while smaller schemes would be cleared at the Departmental Development Working Party (DDWP) level.

The Chief Minister emphasised strict adherence to financial discipline and transparency. “There will be no cost escalations or unnecessary revisions. Every scheme must be well-planned, need-based, and completed within the stipulated time frame,” he directed.

He also ordered that all projects be digitally recorded, monitored through proper systems, and implemented strictly as per approved PC-Is.

The meeting was informed that out of 1,082 schemes, 928 have already been approved, while funds have been released for 895 schemes. So far, Rs25.93 billion has been released, with an expenditure of Rs9.72 billion recorded.

The Public Health Engineering Department and Local Government Department account for the majority of schemes, reflecting the government’s focus on essential civic infrastructure.

Murad Ali Shah directed all departments to accelerate implementation, improve utilisation of released funds, and ensure a visible impact on the ground. “Development is not about approvals alone - it is about delivery. Every rupee must translate into tangible benefits for the people,” he said.

He also stressed the need for equitable distribution of schemes across districts and directed close monitoring to avoid delays or inefficiencies.

The Chief Minister reaffirmed his government’s commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goals through targeted investments, improved governance, and inclusive planning. “The SDGs are not just global commitments - they are our roadmap for improving lives across Sindh,” he added.