Balochistan Minister Clarifies CM Bugti's FWO Remarks
Balochistan Planning Minister Mir Zahoor Ahmad Buledi has said Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti's recent remarks about the Frontier Works Organisation (FWO) were presented out of context.
Background on FWO Criticism
Buledi's clarification comes over a week after CM Bugti acknowledged shortcomings in FWO's performance. The chief minister was responding to remarks made by National Party leader Dr Abdul Malik Baloch, who had also criticised the organisation.
Dr Abdul Malik Baloch, a former chief minister, spoke on a point of order in the Balochistan Assembly in late October. He criticised the contracting process for road projects and alleged that FWO awarded work according to its own preferences.
CM Bugti's Comments on FWO
In reply, CM Bugti expressed dissatisfaction with FWO's performance. He said the elected provincial assembly shared these concerns. The chief minister added that even roads constructed in his own area had deteriorated.
He said FWO was awarded projects with the expectation of quality work. However, he claimed the organisation handed projects to smaller subcontractors, resulting in poor execution.
NHA Projects and Security Challenges
Regarding projects by the National Highways Authority (NHA), Bugti said security-related challenges also affected some road schemes. He said the government was addressing those issues.
Buledi Defends FWO at Turbat Press Club
On Friday, Buledi addressed an informal dialogue programme at the Turbat Press Club auditorium. He emphasised that FWO had rendered invaluable services for the construction of highways in Balochistan.
He recalled that multiple personnel had lost their lives during the construction of the Hoshab-Panjgur-Surab Highway (N-85).
Government Development Priorities
Buledi also highlighted the Balochistan government's efforts to prioritise infrastructure development, education, healthcare and youth employment.
Reiterating his position on the broader situation and development agenda in Balochistan, Buledi defended FWO. He termed its overall performance in the province commendable.
Criticism of Political Opponents
Criticising certain political opponents, the PPP leader claimed they opposed the province's progress and had attempted to create negative narratives around infrastructure projects.
He cited their opposition to the Hub Industrial Zone, Gwadar Port, Mirani Dam, Gishkor Dam, and the South Balochistan Package. He accused them of misleading the public for political gain despite these initiatives being vital for regional prosperity.
C&W Department Meeting on Road Projects
In August, a high-level meeting of the Communication and Works (C&W) Department reviewed progress on Phase I and II of road-sector projects launched across the province under the Balochistan Socio-Economic Development Programme.
Chairing the meeting, C&W Secretary Babar Khan expressed dissatisfaction over the slow pace of work on certain critical projects.
Source: dawn