K-P urges special NMD package in 5-year plan
The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) government is advocating for a focused approach to the newly merged districts (NMDs) in the upcoming 13th national five-year plan (2024-29), urging the federal government to address the unique challenges faced by these regions.
Dr. Aamer Abdullah, the Caretaker Minister for Newly Merged Districts Affairs, Industries, Commerce, and Technical Education, has submitted a comprehensive set of proposals to the Planning Commission in Islamabad. These proposals span various sectors, aiming to uplift the NMDs and improve the quality of life for their residents.
The submitted proposals cover a wide range of domains, including communication and works, trade and IT, industrial development, energy, agriculture, irrigation, health, education, and other key sectors. The objective is to incorporate these proposals into the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) under the new five-year plan, ensuring that the unique needs and challenges of the NMDs are effectively addressed.
One of the focal points of the proposed communication projects is the construction of a four-line motorway in strategic areas such as Peshawar, Mohmand, Bajaur, and Timergara. This initiative aims to enhance connectivity and facilitate smoother transportation within and around the NMDs. Additionally, a budget of Rs10 billion has been allocated for the maintenance and rehabilitation of existing trade corridors in the NMDs, a crucial step in supporting trade and economic activities in the region.
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Recognizing the importance of infrastructure, the provincial government proposes the establishment of an Axle Load Control Regime on provincial highways to protect roads from overloading. Simultaneously, there are plans to develop service/rest areas along national and provincial highways, amounting to a budget of one billion rupees. These initiatives are designed to not only improve transportation but also contribute to the overall well-being and safety of travelers.
To address the connectivity challenges faced by the NMDs, the provincial minister suggests connecting all merged districts through highways.
The proposal also includes road construction projects aimed at promoting tourism and improving local connectivity. Roads such as Peshawar-Tirah-Orakzai-Para Chinar Road, Sara Roga Sarwaki Road, Wana-Jandola Road, and Wana-Tank Road are part of the comprehensive plan to enhance accessibility and boost economic activities in these districts.
In the realm of technology, the government envisions providing fiber optic connectivity in eight district headquarters and 25 tehsil headquarters. This initiative is expected to enhance internet facilities, contributing to the overall development and modernization of the NMDs.
Recognizing the significance of border trade, the proposals include the establishment of new border markets and cities, along with customs stations in districts such as Khyber, Bajaur, Mohmand, and South Waziristan Upper and Lower. These initiatives aim to foster economic growth by facilitating cross-border trade and commerce.
Published in The Express Tribune, January 25th, 2024.