The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) goveromnet has to finalize framework of a comprehensive development package for the merged districts. Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Muhammad Sohail Afridi chaired an important meeting which reviewed in detail the proposed framework and priority sectors aimed at ensuring sustainable socio-economic development of the merged areas. The meeting was informed that under the proposed package, significant investments would be made in six thematic areas for development of the merged districts. The total size of the development package would be Rs 1,000 billion and its name has been finalized as “Roshan Qabail.

Addressing the meeting, the CM said that under this package special focus would be placed on improving infrastructure, developing human resources and creating employment opportunities so that the merged districts can be brought at par with other developed areas of the province. He directed that establishment of Tribal Medical College, Institute of Modern Sciences and inclusion of Safe city projects in the package. He also instructed that establishment of District Headquarter Hospitals and Tehsil Headquarter Hospitals be made part of the package in districts and tehsils where such facilities do not currently exist.

The Chief Minister further directed that a modern sports complex be established in each merged district and sports ground at tehsil level to provide healthy recreational opportunities for youth. He also directed that Rescue 1122 station, orphanages and shelter homes should be included in the development plan for every tehsil across the merged districts. During the meeting, CM emphasized increasing the share of investment in health and education sectors stating that sustainable development is not possible without substantial improvement in these areas. He also directed enhancement of allocations for Science, Technology and Information Technology, Irrigation, Social Welfare, Sports.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)