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QUETTA, Jul 28 (APP):Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti has pledged to eliminate the misuse of advance payments and repeated financial revisions in development projects, vowing zero tolerance for such practices under his administration.
Chairing a high-level meeting of the Communication and Works Department in Quetta, the chief minister reviewed updates on project progress, budget utilization, and construction quality, focusing on key road projects such as Hanna Road and Sibi-Tharri-Kohlu Road.
Officials briefed Sarfraz Bugti that both roads are on track for completion within the current fiscal year, with expectations to enhance regional connectivity and facilitate better access to national highways.
This year, the government has earmarked Rs. 27 billion for the development of 27 major road infrastructure projects across the province, aimed at improving public mobility and stimulating economic activity.
The chief minister stressed that all development work must adhere to approved timelines and quality standards, warning that delays and substandard performance would invite strict action.
In a move toward accountability, Secretary Communications Lal Jan Jafar reported that 56 contractors and firms including two insurance companies have already been blacklisted for poor execution and delay tactics.
Bugti took a hard stance on financial mismanagement, stating:
“The unnecessary practice of advance payments and frequent financial revisions must be rooted out. Any official authorizing payment before work begins will face immediate disciplinary action, they should mentally prepare for suspension or dismissal.”
He emphasized that while the government is committed to timely funding, departments must ensure professional execution without lapses. Negligence will not be tolerated.
Expressing dissatisfaction over delays in the Zamri Road project, the chief minister directed that construction begin within 20 days or disciplinary action would be taken against responsible officers and contractors.
Reiterating his administration’s commitment to reform, Bugti said transparency, efficiency, and quality would be non-negotiable values moving forward:
“The public’s tax money must be spent wisely, he said adding that we will strictly enforce a zero-tolerance policy against corruption and negligence.”