KARACHI, Nov 16: Provision of funds for completing the ongoing development schemes under in transport and communication sectors were considered at a meeting held here on Tuesday under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Dr Arbab Ghulam Rahim.

The meeting was informed that Rs1,685.098 million had been allocated for 286 schemes under the Annual Development Programme 2005-06. Of them, 19 pertained to road construction which could be completed expeditiously with the provision of Rs77.959 million, and if Rs481 million were provided, a total of 35 schemes could be completed by January next.

The chief minister directed participants of the meeting that these schemes should not be revised and 50 per cent remaining amount for 19 of the schemes be released forthwith to ensure their completion.

Besides, Rs240 million, being the remaining 50 per cent funds allocated for 16 schemes, would be released immediately from the Rural Development Fund for their completion.

Dr Arbab told the meeting that the work on canals’ Bhal Safai would start soon while working of irrigation department would be streamlined.

The meeting was informed that Rs112.515 million was required for eight schemes of Thar Coal project.

The meeting was attended by Minister for Works and Services Sadruddin Shah Rashdi, Adviser on Finance M. A. Jalil, Chief Secretary Fazlur Rehman, Additional Chief Secretary Ghulam Sarwar Khero, Secretary Finance Malik Israr, Secretary Works Faisal Saud and other provincial officials.—APP