Why cannot those elected to govern provinces in Pakistan understand that Chinese are investing in CPEC related projects which would be beneficial for their long term strategic and trade interests and also reap benefits for our country? Can KP and Sindh governments under ANP, PPP and PTI explain why they have not invested in building necessary infrastructure of roads, telecommunication, health and education during their tenures? Agreed that all is not transparent with big projects undertaken in Punjab by PML-N, but at least they exist in reality unlike the billions that seem to have evaporated in projects that exist only on paper in other provinces. Where are billions allocated for building of embankments to prevent ravages by floods in Sindh or what concrete steps has KP taken to alleviate victims of earthquake?
KP CM Pervaiz Khattak holds power in his province and nobody has stopped him from utilising development funds at his disposal efficiently in a manner to boost economic activity in area under his jurisdiction. No foreign government or investor will put at stake their finances unless there is abundance of power generated, with an efficient distribution system in place and secure law and order environment necessary to attract them. The provinces must put their own house in order and focus on socioeconomic development schemes by utilising their funds transparently and put in place a strict audit system to check any abuse or misuse. It is time Punjab, KP, Sindh and Balochistan provincial governments start delivering, instead of just creating nuisance and controversies. Whatever CPEC has to offer must be welcomed instead of harping on needless controversies. Political leaders must act with responsibility and walk their talk.
ANEELA CHANDIO
Sukkur
