Ahsan Reviews Progress On Kachhi Canal Phase-II, PIDE Land, Iqbal Memorial Projects
ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Sep, 2026)
Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal on Thursday reviewed progress on various development projects, including:
- Kachhi Canal Phase-II
- Provision of land to the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE)
- The Allama Iqbal Memorial and Iqbal Library
The meeting also discussed delays in the completion of a 35-kilometer road connecting Loralai and Zhob, and considered measures to ensure its timely completion as per the Prime Minister's directives.
Kachhi Canal Phase-II Project
Ahsan Iqbal emphasized that the project must adhere to the highest construction quality standards and directed authorities to ensure strict compliance at every stage. He further instructed that the Government of Balochistan be consulted on all available options for effective, transparent, and coordinated implementation.
PIDE Land Issue
The minister expressed grave concern over the delay by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) in providing land to PIDE. He noted that PIDE had deposited approximately Rs. 4 billion with the CDA between 2017 and 2020 but had not been allocated the required land despite six years having passed.
Ahsan stated that PIDE had been pursuing the matter with the CDA since 2022, with little progress. He highlighted frequent legal or ownership issues with the land allocated to the institution. He demanded immediate land allocation or a refund of PIDE's funds if suitable land was unavailable.
Allama Iqbal Memorial and Iqbal Library Project
The minister directed that the library be developed to international standards and serve as a model for other cities, emphasizing its significance as the Year of Allama Iqbal approaches. He instructed the CDA to move the summary concerning the library within three days.
Ahsan Iqbal urged all concerned authorities to expedite progress on the projects and ensure implementation of the Prime Minister's directives within the set timelines.