PESHAWAR: A meeting of the Planning and Development Department chaired by Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi reviewed proposals for the establishment of three small industrial estates in the merged districts, provision of financial assistance to skilled youth, and facilitation of business operating units.
The meeting was arranged to undertake a comprehensive review of the proposed Annual Development Programme for the fiscal year 2026-27 and deliberate on new development initiatives across multiple sectors. The participants reviewed proposed schemes relating to the Excise, Local Government, Climate Change, Food, Housing, Home, Agriculture, Livestock, and Energy Departments, with priorities identified in line with public welfare and sustainable socio economic development objectives.
Speaking on the occasion, the chief minister stated that the forthcoming provincial budget would be designed with a particular focus on empowering youth and improving the socio economic conditions of low and middle income segments of society.
He emphasized that budgetary priorities would be aligned to expand employment opportunities and promote inclusive economic growth, directing that development interventions with direct and tangible public benefit be accorded highest priority.
The meeting considered proposals to establish Safe City in Kohat, Mardan, Peshawar, and the merged districts as part of the Government’s broader strategy to strengthen urban security and public safety infrastructure. The chief minister directed the relocation of the existing grain warehouse from Peshawar and instructed the relevant authorities to establish a modern alternative facility.
In addition, proposals were reviewed for the establishment of technologically advanced grain storage facilities at divisional headquarters to improve food security management and storage efficiency.
To strengthen the capacity of law enforcement and public security institutions, the meeting reviewed proposals for the acquisition of land for the establishment of eight new Excise police stations in various districts, enhancement of prison security infrastructure, strengthening of police stations, provision of advanced equipment to the Special Branch, and establishment of district level Counter Terrorism Department structures.
In the energy sector, proposals were discussed for the establishment of mini solar grids in the merged districts, rehabilitation of micro hydropower stations in Tirah, and installation of new electricity feeders.
The inclusion of the 22 megawatt Patrak Shringle Hydropower Station in the forthcoming development programme was also considered. The chief minister directed that all government offices in the merged districts be transitioned to solar energy in a phased manner, that the household solarization initiative in these areas be expedited, and that further potential mini micro hydropower projects be explored.
With regard to youth development and economic empowerment, the chief minister directed the formulation of comprehensive schemes aimed at equipping young people with modern skills and vocational training, promoting e commerce, and facilitating entrepreneurship and business development opportunities.
To strengthen environmental sustainability and climate resilience, proposals were considered for the establishment of a Climate Change Authority, revival of the Forest Development Corporation, and initiatives aimed at economically empowering women through non timber forest products.
The chief minister directed the preparation of a comprehensive three year afforestation plan and instructed the formulation of a dedicated afforestation scheme to increase forest cover across the province.
In the agriculture and livestock sectors, proposals were reviewed for the establishment of fruit and vegetable markets, modern slaughterhouses, and model sanitation villages in the merged districts. The chief minister directed that the Animal Rights Policy be finalized at the earliest.
