By Asad Cheema
ISLAMABAD: The federal government has spent Rs73.5 billion on 148 projects in Balochistan under PSDP 2025-26 by the end of March 2026.
During the year 2025-26, an amount of Rs206 billion was allocated for these projects with an approved cost of Rs1.365 trillion. Out of 148 projects, 137 are ongoing, while 11 newly approved projects carry a total cost of Rs152.4 billion.
Out of the total portfolio, 137 ongoing projects account for the bulk, with an approved cost of Rs1,212.1 billion and an allocation of Rs204.8 billion for 2025-26, while the 11 new projects costing Rs152.4 billion have received a token allocation of Rs1.2 billion.
The Finance Division, in coordination with the Planning Commission, has authorized upfront one-line releases to executing ministries and divisions under a quarterly disbursement strategy for FY2025-26.
Sectoral allocations show that the National Highway Authority (NHA) leads with 19 projects worth Rs625.3 billion, followed by the Government of Balochistan, through the Finance Division, which is managing 68 projects costing Rs233.9 billion.
Key contributions have also been made by the Water Resources Division, Power Division, and Higher Education Commission, reflecting a diversified development approach.
As per the document, 80 out of the 148 projects are of provincial nature, carrying a total cost of Rs413 billion, with Rs36 billion allocated for these projects.
These projects aim to strengthen local infrastructure and service delivery mechanisms across the province.
Region-specific development efforts remain a priority, particularly in Gwadar and Quetta. In Gwadar, 22 projects with a total cost of Rs184 billion are underway.
Meanwhile, Quetta hosts 15 projects costing Rs28 billion.
The Planning Commission has emphasized that these initiatives are integral to enhancing connectivity, boosting economic activity, and addressing long-standing development gaps in Balochistan, aligning with broader national development priorities.
