Key Points
- Out of 148 projects, 137 are ongoing, and 11 are newly approved
- Combined multi-sector investment portfolio exceeding Rs 1.365 trillion (about $4.88 billion)
- Major focus areas include highways, water, power, and higher education
- Gwadar and Quetta emerging as key development hubs
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s federal government has continued large-scale development spending in Balochistan, releasing Rs 73.5 billion (about $260 million) by the end of March 2026 for 148 projects.
The Balochistan development projects are strengthening infrastructure, connectivity and public services in the country’s largest (area-wise) but least developed province.
Official documents reviewed show that during the 2025-26 fiscal year, Rs 206 billion (about $0.74 billion) was allocated for these projects under the Public Sector Development Programme, against the approved cumulative cost of Rs 1.365 trillion (about $4.88 billion).
The portfolio includes 137 ongoing schemes and 11 newly approved projects, reflecting a sustained investment push across multiple sectors.
The ongoing 137 projects amount to an approved cost of Rs 1,212.1 billion (approx $4.33 billion), with Rs 204.8 billion ($0.73 billion) allocated for the current fiscal year.
The 11 newly sanctioned projects, valued at Rs 152.4 billion (about $544 million), have received a token allocation of Rs 1.2 billion (about $4.29 million), indicating early-stage funding before full-scale execution.
According to the Finance Division, in coordination with the Planning Commission, executing ministries and divisions have been authorised to receive one-line releases upfront.
The facility is available under a quarterly disbursement mechanism for the 2025-26 fiscal cycle, and aims to improve fund utilisation and project continuity.
Sector-wise breakdown shows the National Highway Authority leading implementation with 19 projects worth Rs 625.3 billion ( nearly $2.23 billion).
It reflects the emphasis on road connectivity and logistics integration.
The Government of Balochistan, through the Finance Division, is managing 68 projects valued at Rs 233.9 billion (approx $835 million), covering a wide range of provincial development needs.
Additional contributions from the Water Resources Division, Power Division and Higher Education Commission reflect a diversified development strategy targeting both infrastructure expansion and human capital development.
Of the total portfolio, 80 projects are classified as provincial in nature, with a combined cost of Rs 413 billion ($1.48 billion).
It also includes an allocation of Rs 36 billion (about $129 million) for the current year. These initiatives are aimed at improving local infrastructure, governance capacity and service delivery mechanisms across the province.
Regionally, Gwadar and Quetta remain focal points of investment. Gwadar is hosting 22 projects with a total cost of Rs 184 billion (approx $657 million), reflecting its strategic importance in coastal development and regional connectivity.
Quetta, the provincial capital, has 15 projects worth Rs 28 billion (about $100 million), targeting urban infrastructure and civic improvements.
The Planning Commission has stated that these initiatives are central to addressing longstanding development gaps in Balochistan. They would also enhance national connectivity and support overall economic integration across Pakistan.
