K-IV Water Project Worth Rs. 171.8 Billion Moves to ECNEC for Approval

The K-IV water project moved one step closer to implementation after the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) referred it to the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) for final approval. The project now carries an estimated cost of Rs. 171.81 billion. Its original estimate stood at around Rs. 15 billion, reflecting a sharp increase over the years.

Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal chaired the CDWP meeting, which reviewed development projects worth Rs. 252.97 billion. The committee approved four projects valued at Rs. 12.44 billion. Meanwhile, it referred three major projects worth Rs. 240.54 billion to ECNEC for final consideration.

K-IV Project Targets Karachi’s Water Shortage

The K-IV project aims to improve Karachi’s drinking water supply through modern infrastructure. It includes a 650 million gallons per day (MGD) intake structure at Keenjhar Lake, transmission pipelines, pumping stations, water reservoirs, filtration plants, and supporting facilities.

Ahsan Iqbal described the project as essential for meeting Karachi’s long-term water needs. In addition, he directed the Sindh government to submit a detailed implementation plan for the required 50-megawatt power supply and distribution network. The electricity system will ensure the smooth operation of the water supply infrastructure.

CDWP Advances Space and Education Projects

The CDWP also referred the Rs. 37.13 billion Pakistan Space Centre project and the Rs. 31.59 billion Lahore Water and Waste Water Management Project to ECNEC. The Pakistan Space Centre will strengthen the country’s satellite development capabilities under the National Space Programme 2047. Meanwhile, the Lahore project will improve water treatment and reduce water losses.

Furthermore, the committee approved four Higher Education Commission (HEC) projects. These include upgrades at Women University of AJ&K Bagh, Emerson University Multan, Hyderabad Institute of Technology and Management Sciences, and KBCMA College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences. However, some projects received approval subject to cost rationalisation and other conditions.

During the meeting, Ahsan Iqbal instructed the HEC to prepare comprehensive university master plans. He also directed authorities to hire prequalified contractors, appoint experienced project directors, and include photographic evidence of completed work in future project submissions.