KARACHI: Senior leaders of the ruling Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) met key government officials on Sunday to discuss and review proposed development schemes for the metropolis ahead of the upcoming provincial budget.

The meeting, held at the residence of Sindh Energy Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, focused on the upcoming budget and strategic priorities for the city’s growth and infrastructure enhancement.

Several senior party leaders and elected representatives attended the meeting, including senior leader Syed Khursheed Shah, Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, Local Government Minister Saeed Ghani, provincial minister Mukesh Kumar Chawla, Senator-elect Waqar Mehdi and advisor to the chief minister Aijaz Jakhrani.

PPP members of the National Assembly and Sindh Assembly from Karachi also attended the meeting.

A statement issued after the meeting said that chairman of the Planning and Development Board, Najam Ahmed Shah, briefed the participants on the scope and progress of current and upcoming development initiatives.

“The session included detailed discussions about budget allocations and planning for the fiscal year targeting Karachi’s development needs,” it said.

Minister Nasir Shah emphasised the importance of fast-tracking all ongoing development schemes and completing them within the stipulated time frame.

“We are committed to ensuring that no project remains stalled or delayed. Timely completion is crucial for delivering results to the citizens,” he said.

In line with PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari’s vision, Mr Shah stressed the significance of focusing on grassroots-level development.

“Special attention must be given to health, education, and infrastructure schemes at the Union Council level,” he added.

He also directed that solar energy schemes be completed within the specified schedule and that water supply projects be prioritised due to their critical importance for the city.

The meeting also reviewed proposals aimed at improving urban livability. These included the renovation and enhancement of public parks, playgrounds and recreational spaces.

The participants also considered various suggestions to improve traffic flow and urban mobility across Karachi.

The development vision discussed, the statement said, reflects PPP’s broader commitment to uplift Karachi through sustainable urban planning, infrastructure modernisation and better delivery of civic services.

“Emphasis was placed on community-level projects that directly impact daily life, including clean drinking water, renewable energy, health facilities, and quality education,” it said.

The meeting vowed to ensure transparency, efficiency and accountability in the execution of all development schemes.

The leadership reiterated their dedication to serving the people of Karachi and fulfilling the party’s promise of a modern, functional and livable metropolitan city.

Published in Dawn, May 12th, 2025