Balochistan okays public-private partnership projects
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QUETTA: The Balochistan government will launch several development projects under the public-private partnership (PPP) model in the next financial year, Finance Minister Mir Shoaib Nosherwani said on Friday.
Mr Nosherwani, while presiding over the sixth meeting of the PPP unit, said the projects are in their final stages and described the involvement of the private sector as “sustainable and beneficial for the long-term public interest”.
Senior Minister for Planning and Development Zahoor Ahmed Buledi, Secretary Transport Muhammad Hayat Kakar, Special Finance Secretary Jahangir Kakar and other senior officials attended the meeting.
Mr Nosherwani emphasised the provincial government’s commitment to public welfare and the provision of basic services under Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti’s leadership.
The meeting unanimously approved an increase in the number of buses for the Quetta Green Bus Project and granted approval to launch a similar project in Turbat.
Provincial budget for FY26 expected on 17th
Additionally, the proposal to transfer the administration of Fatima Jinnah Municipal Girls High School to a non-governmental partner on a voluntary basis was also approved.
Mr Nosherwani reiterated the government’s belief in the PPP model as an effective approach to improving both the transportation and education sectors.
“The Green Bus Project is a major step towards convenient and environmentally friendly travel for the public,” Mr Nosherwani said, adding that efforts are underway to implement such projects on a sustainable basis.
Mr Buledi said green buses in Turbat would benefit locals and the private sector involvement in development projects ensures transparency, higher quality, and faster execution.
Provincial budget
The Balochistan cabinet will meet on June 16 to finalise and approve the budget for the fiscal year 2025-26.
The budget will be presented provincial assembly a day later, officials said on Friday.
Balochistan Governor Sheikh Jaffar Khan Mandokhail has convened the assembly session on Tuesday (June 17).
The timeline was established after Chief Minister Bugti met with opposition members on Friday to discuss the upcoming budget and other parliamentary affairs.
Mr Bugti said the government is “committed to formulating the budget through meaningful consultation.”
He assured the opposition that their proposals and suggestions would be taken into consideration during the budget-making process.
Mr Bugti emphasised the government believes in constructive engagement and stressed the need to make decisions in the public interest, above political differences.
“Respect for parliamentary traditions, the promotion of democratic values, and the inclusion of all elected representatives are essential to strengthening the system,” he said.
The chief minister stated that all members of the Balochistan Assembly are being given a fair opportunity to play an effective role in making the budget and legislative process more result-oriented.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to presenting a budget that is not just a collection of financial figures, but “a comprehensive roadmap for the province’s development, public welfare, and long-term progress”.
Finance ministry officials indicated the provincial budget will be balanced, realistic and focused on public welfare and collective development projects.
Highlighting key priorities, officials said the budget will place a strong emphasis on improved governance, quality education, healthcare services, employment opportunities and integrated development projects.
Published in Dawn, June 14th, 2025
