Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has issued directives to expedite the process of dissolving the Pakistan Public Works Department (PWD). During a high-level meeting in Islamabad, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of protecting the interests of PWD employees throughout the dissolution process. He also outlined plans for the continuation of ongoing projects and the future management of PWD assets.
The Prime Minister’s decision comes amidst concerns about the financial burden imposed by the PWD on Pakistan’s economy. According to an official statement released on Sunday, the meeting discussed the dissolution and replacement strategies for the PWD, a move aimed at alleviating the economic strain caused by the department.
Prime Minister Sharif highlighted the need to ensure that the employees of the PWD are treated fairly during the transition. “The interests of the employees should be protected during the dissolution process,” he stated. This assurance aims to alleviate any concerns among PWD staff about their job security and future prospects.
The Prime Minister also confirmed that ongoing projects under the PWD will be completed by the relevant federal and provincial departments. This measure is intended to ensure that there is no disruption in the progress of important infrastructure projects across the country. By reallocating these projects to other governmental bodies, the administration aims to maintain momentum and prevent any potential setbacks.
In a significant policy shift, Prime Minister Sharif announced that the government would engage private companies of international standards for future construction and repair projects. This decision aligns with the broader strategy of improving the quality and efficiency of government projects by leveraging the expertise and resources of reputable private firms. The involvement of these companies is expected to bring about higher standards of construction and timely project completion, which have been longstanding issues within the PWD.
To manage the assets of the PWD post-dissolution, an asset management company will be established. This new entity will be responsible for overseeing and managing the extensive assets previously under the control of the PWD. Prime Minister Sharif stressed the importance of digitizing the asset records of the PWD to ensure transparency and efficient management. “Asset records of PWD should be fully digitized,” he directed, highlighting the need for modernizing the management of these resources.
Prime Minister Sharif pointed out the economic implications of maintaining institutions that are financially burdensome. “Pakistan’s economic situation could not afford any more burdens of institutions that harm the country’s exchequer,” he remarked. This statement reflects the government’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and the need to streamline operations to reduce unnecessary expenditures.
The dissolution of the PWD is part of a broader effort to optimize government operations and reduce financial inefficiencies. By dissolving the PWD, the government aims to redirect resources and focus on more productive and economically beneficial activities. The Prime Minister’s decision underscores the importance of prudent financial management and the elimination of wasteful spending in the public sector.
As the government moves forward with the dissolution of the PWD, there will be close monitoring of the transition process to ensure that it proceeds smoothly and efficiently. The establishment of an asset management company and the digitization of records are crucial steps in this transition, ensuring that assets are managed transparently and effectively.
The engagement of private companies for future projects signifies a shift towards a more collaborative approach between the public and private sectors. This collaboration is expected to enhance the quality and efficiency of infrastructure development in Pakistan.
The protection of employee interests remains a priority, with the government committed to ensuring that PWD staff are supported during the transition. The completion of ongoing projects by federal and provincial departments will ensure continuity and prevent any delays in critical infrastructure projects.
