Speaker Balochistan Assembly Directs Recovery of Advance Payments from Contractors Over Pat Feeder Canal Project Delays

Independent Report
Quetta, October 1, — A crucial meeting on the Pat Feeder Canal Rehabilitation Project was held at the Balochistan Assembly under the chairmanship of Speaker Capt. (R) Abdul Khaliq Khan Achakzai. The session was attended by MPA Tariq Khan Magsi, Parliamentary Secretary Abdul Majeed Badini, Assembly Secretary Tahir Shah Kakar, Secretary Irrigation, Project Director, Secretary to Speaker Hayat Bizenjo, and other relevant officials.

Parliamentary Secretary Abdul Majeed Badini briefed the house, stressing that the Pat Feeder Canal is the lifeline of the local farmers and communities, as their livelihoods depend on its restoration. He highlighted growing public concern that despite PKR 65 billion allocated funds and PKR 11 billion released as mobilization advance, practical work on the project has yet to begin.

MPA Tariq Khan Magsi added that the tendering process had already been completed and funds released, but contractors had still failed to initiate the project. He emphasized that such contractors must be held accountable.

The Secretary Irrigation assured the meeting that all illegal water connections will be removed and proposed the formation of a committee to monitor implementation. The Project Director presented technical details, confirming that approvals and tendering phases were completed. However, he pointed out obstacles on the Sindh side, including encroachments, security concerns, and utility relocation issues.

Speaker Abdul Khaliq Khan Achakzai stressed that public money must be protected. He ordered that 50% of the mobilization advance given to contractors be recovered immediately and warned that contractors may be summoned before the Assembly at any time. Furthermore, he directed that by October 20, 2025, a comprehensive financial and operational report be submitted, detailing expenditures and utilization of mobilization funds.

The meeting concluded with members reaffirming their commitment to ensuring timely completion of the Pat Feeder Canal Project, stating that no delay in this public-interest initiative will be tolerated and that the rights of farmers will be safeguarded at all costs.