Islamabad, Pakistan — Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, has instructed the aviation ministry to fast-track the outsourcing process for Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi airports. During a comprehensive review meeting with the Public-Private Partnership Authority (P3A) on Thursday, the minister assessed the progress of 13 critical public-interest projects outlined by the prime minister.
Progress on Airport Outsourcing
Aviation officials provided updates on the outsourcing of major airports, a move aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and service quality. The Pakistan Airports Authority’s Technical Evaluation Committee is currently scrutinizing bids for Islamabad Airport. Concurrently, due diligence reports for Lahore and Karachi airports have been finalized and submitted to P3A.
Notably, discussions with a UAE-based firm concerning Lahore Airport are advancing, with a follow-up meeting scheduled soon. The initiative aims to leverage private sector expertise to modernize airport infrastructure and elevate Pakistan’s global connectivity.
Reducing Cargo Congestion at Karachi Port
Addressing another pressing national priority, Ahsan Iqbal emphasized the need to alleviate cargo congestion at Karachi Port by developing a dedicated freight corridor. The minister directed the Ministry of Maritime Affairs to collaborate with Karachi Port Trust and other stakeholders to address inefficiencies caused by restrictive operational timings.
“A dedicated freight corridor will not only streamline cargo operations but also bolster trade and logistics capabilities,” said Iqbal. P3A was further tasked with coordinating efforts between the Ministries of Commerce and Railways to expedite this critical project.
Strengthening Food Security Infrastructure
To stabilize market prices and prevent supply chain disruptions, the minister highlighted the urgency of improving food storage facilities in Dera Ghazi Khan and Bahawalpur. He instructed the Ministry of Food Security to rehabilitate non-functional storage units in these regions to ensure consistent food availability.
Boosting Development in Islamabad
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) was urged to resolve delays hindering the construction of hotel projects in Islamabad. Additionally, the CDA shared progress on the planned construction of a modern slaughterhouse, with feasibility studies completed and bids for a transaction advisor set to open next week.
Enhancing Foreign Investment
In a broader push to attract foreign investment, the minister directed the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) to reassess timelines for Rs29 billion worth of agreements with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and Azerbaijan. Emphasizing the importance of export-driven growth, he urged stakeholders to present bankable projects capable of securing international partnerships.
Formation of a Dedicated Task Force
To ensure the timely execution of these initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal announced the formation of a dedicated committee tasked with establishing actionable timelines and streamlining inter-ministerial coordination.
Commitment to Economic Growth
The meeting reinforced the government’s commitment to fostering public-private partnerships and driving infrastructure development to strengthen Pakistan’s economy and improve public services. By focusing on strategic projects and international collaborations, the government aims to create a more sustainable and prosperous future.
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