ISLAMABAD - Federal Minister Planning, Development and Reforms Ahsan Iqbal has said that Thar would emerge as the ‘energy capital’ of the country and will provide opportunities for employment and growth in the backward areas of Sindh.
He emphasised that investors in Thar should demonstrate Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to uplift lives in Thar. "The economic activity in Thar should not mean to earn the profits only but should be aimed to uplift social sector,” said Ahsan Iqbal while chairing a high-level meeting to review the progress on various projects of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
The minister advised Water and Power Ministry to help Balochistan government in preparation of financial feasibility to utilise coal reserves in Harnai to firm up coal-based power project in the area.
Officials of concerned ministries briefed the meeting about projects’ status under the CPEC framework. The minister directed to undertake the construction work on the CPEC projects on fast track basis to ensure their completion in stipulated time frame. He emphasised that smarter and scientific approach should be adopted while carrying out the work on CPEC projects. He urged for mobilising the required financial resources promptly for smooth execution of work on these projects.
Ahsan Iqbal also laid great emphasis on environmental aspects of all CPEC projects and observed that precautionary measures should be considered to avoid any environmental hazards. On Gwadar, Ahsan Iqbal directed for economically and environmentally feasible power projects to cater the electricity demands of Gwadar Port City and Makran coastal belt.
He emphasized the need to work out a plan to develop Gwadar Port City with an aesthetic look by inviting top architectures to come up with their plans though open competition. He particularly directed to chalk out feasible plans for downstream disposal of ash of coal based power plants. He asked the concerned authorities to study the best international practices for ash utilization of coal based power plants.
Minister also directed National Highway Authority to meet timelines for completion of missing links on Western route to operationalise it as first priority under CPEC framework as part of commitment of government. He stated: "Gwadar will be connected with rest of the country through three routes that would bring a transformational change in the area". Ahsan Iqbal also directed to work out a plan for upgradation of Sust dry port in Gilgit-Baltistan for its proper utilization in CPEC framework.