This week, the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) greenlit over $1.5 billion in development projects. These initiatives target artificial intelligence, railway upgrades, and satellite development. Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal presided over the meeting on Thursday to review the proposals. Now, the projects await final cabinet approval. This move aligns with the government’s broader strategy to expand digital infrastructure, upgrade transport, and boost space capabilities.
Boosting Tech and Space Infrastructure
The newly approved plans focus heavily on digital transformation. The government wants to transition Pakistan into a tech-driven economy. To achieve this, the CDWP approved a National Artificial Intelligence Ecosystem Development Program and an Emerging Technologies Data Center. The country will also build a Robotics Center of Excellence and a GEO-AI Development and Innovation Hub.
Beyond digital data, Pakistan is looking toward the stars. The initiative includes the PakSat-2 communication satellite project. This development will enhance national communications, improve navigation, and aid in natural disaster management. Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal emphasized that these strategic investments are vital for building a competitive, knowledge-based economy.
Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal noted that the Rathoa Haryam Bridge project had been stalled since 2018. However, the current government revived the project after taking office in April 2022. Though originally started back in 2006, workers have now physically completed the bridge. The final, revised cost reached Rs9.98 billion, which the Public Sector Development Programme fully funded.
Development of the Railway Network
Alongside high-tech advancements, the government is tackling essential transport infrastructure. Pakistan’s aging railway network urgently needs modernization to support economic growth. Better tracks will improve both passenger travel and freight transport.
To address this, the CDWP recommended a massive upgrade for the 996-kilometer ML-3 railway section. This track runs from Rohri to Koh-e-Taftan via Sibi and Quetta. Upgrading this vital corridor will strengthen regional trade links. Ultimately, these infrastructure and tech projects support the “URAAN Pakistan” vision, which aims for sustainable economic growth and better public services.
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