The public private partnership (PPP) model has brought significant development in various sectors of Sindh during the last few years, reports WealthPK. The PPP model – though at a nascent stage in Pakistan at present – has great potential in future.; however, Sindh took the lead by adopting this model compared to the other provinces and undertook multiple development projects under this concept. In view of the special characteristics of the PPP projects and the need to attract qualified private investors to support these projects, a special legal and regulatory framework was needed. To meet this objective, the Sindh government promulgated new rules for the PPPs. These policy guidelines have been drafted to supplement the legal and regulatory framework for PPPs and to assist both the private and the public sectors in implementing this innovative procurement methodology.

For sustained development, the PPPs will have to be mainstreamed in Sindh, rather than being used just for a few special projects. To fully utilize the PPPs’ potential and to ensure that these projects are successful and mutually beneficial, a comprehensive enabling environment for private investments in infrastructure facilities has been created through the adoption of relevant policies, establishment of a legal and regulatory framework and introduction of clear guidelines for cost recovery and PPP financing arrangements. Official documents of Sindh government show that the PPPpublic-private partnerships have transformed multiple sectors, and served as a propelling force of progress and prosperity.

Projects ranging from road and bridge infrastructure to health, water, information technology, special economic zones, education, and urban development have been designed to make a difference in the lives of the Pakistaniour people. The robust PPP projects have been the driving force behind the unprecedented development during the period 2018-2023. The roads and bridges now connect communities, reduce travel time and stimulate economic growth. The healthcare initiatives have improved people’s access to quality medical services, ensuring the well-being of our citizens. In the realm of education, the PPP model established state-of-the-art facilities, empowering the next generation with knowledge and opportunities.

The establishment of Special Economic Zones has attracted investments that would help generate employment and foster industrial growth. Additionally, focus on urban development has transformed the cities into vibrant and sustainable hubs. Among others, Malir Expressway project and Nabisar to Vajihar Project hold significantce and economic value. Besides, the Food Silos project will cater to storage requirements and Education Management Organization will be useful for effective school management. Likewise, NICH Safety Security Project has been rolled over in the year 2020 for better security of patients and hospital staff.

There is a long list of projects undertaken through the PPP model in Sindh and more are in the pipeline to uplift the province socio-economically. One such project undertaken under this model is Hyderabad-Mirpur Khas dual carriageway. Travelling through the dilapidated single lane road between Hyderabad and Mirpurkhas used to be a nightmare; however, the development of a newthird dual carriageway between these two important cities of Sindh has not only saved the travel time but also the natural beauty of Sindh with mango trees – dotting both sides of the road – making the journey more pleasant.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)