Despite some delays, the chief minister assured the delegation that the Sindh Solar Energy Project is on track for completion by November 30.
In a recent meeting between a 12-member delegation from the World Bank, led by Country Director Najy Binhussaine, and Sindh’s Caretaker Chief Minister Justice (retd) Maqbool Baqar, it was revealed that the Sindh Solar Energy Project (SSEP) is making significant strides. As of now, solar installations have been completed at 33 out of 34 designated sites.
Despite some delays, the chief minister assured the delegation that the Sindh Solar Energy Project is on track for completion by November 30. The discussion primarily centered on the broader World Bank-assisted portfolio in the province.
The meeting was attended by key figures including cabinet members Ishwar Lal, Omar Soomro, Rana Hussain, Chief Secretary Dr Fakhre Ala, PSCM Hassan Naqvi, Chairman Planning and Development Shakil Mangnejo, Secretary of Local Government Manzoor Shaikh, and other senior officials.
Mangnejo provided the delegation with a comprehensive update on the progress and challenges faced by ongoing projects in the province. Currently, there are 13 major World Bank-sponsored projects underway in Sindh, with a total value of $3,218.3 million. Of this, $947.8 million (29%) has already been disbursed. In the current fiscal year, an additional $415 million is expected to be released, of which $133.8 million has already been distributed.
The Competitive and Livable City of Karachi (CLICK) project was also discussed, highlighting a delay in the property tax survey, now slated to commence in March 2024. It was emphasized that the procurement of satellite data and software development would be finalized by March.
The Karachi Mobility Project, which includes the construction of Jam Sadiq Bridge, was addressed, indicating that financial proposals are currently under evaluation. The procurement notice for the BRT Yellow Line has been issued, with proposals set to be received by Nov 15.
Additionally, it was decided to conclude the design and bidding documents for the 10km BRT Yellow Line Corridor within the next month.
The meeting also tackled the “Strengthening Social Protection Delivery System in Sindh” project and resolved to expedite the appointment of a Secretary for the Social Development Department to initiate the project.
Regarding the Sindh Irrigated Agriculture Productivity Improvement Project, it was reported that out of 1,593 watercourses, 845 have been rehabilitated. Moreover, 40 out of 56 water storage tanks have been rehabilitated, with work on the remaining 16 in progress.
In conclusion, the meeting agreed to conduct a review of progress on these projects again after two months.