Federal Minister Planning, Development and Reform Ahsan Iqbal chaired a high level meeting to review the progress on various projects of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Officials of various ministries briefed the meeting about status of work on various projects under CPEC framework. Minister Planning and Development directed to undertake the construction work on CPEC projects on fast track basis to ensure their completion in stipulated time frame.
The minister emphasised that smarter and scientific approach should be adopted while carrying out the work on CPEC projects. He urged for mobilising the required financial resources promptly for smooth execution of work on these projects. Ahsan Iqbal also laid great emphasis on environmental aspects of all CPEC projects and observed that these should be considered to avoid any environmental hazards. CPEC projects are meant for socio-economic development of the country but utmost caution should be exercised for safer and greener environment.
He also directed for resolving the issues immediately that may slow down the pace of work on CPEC projects. Minister particular inquired about status of work on various sections of Western route, whose construction is top and foremost priority of the government.
He said that construction work on various projects of various sections of Western route should be completed as per the timelines to operationalise it at earliest. The minister said that federal government wants to complete the work on Western route on priority basis in accordance with its commitment made with national political leadership.
Ahsan Iqbal also directed for speeding up the pace of work for land acquisition and financial close of projects under CPEC framework. He said apart from infrastructure projects in Gwadar, social sector uplift is also being taken up on urgent basis. Gwadar University is being taken up on fast track basis and announced that directives have been issued to start the classes by September this year. Meeting reviewed energy, infrastructure and Gwadar related projects of CPEC.-PR