ISLAMABAD: Executive Committee of National Economic Council (ECNEC) okayed six major development projects worth Rs 178.1 billion in different sectors including health, agriculture, energy and transport.

ECNEC gave approval in meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar. According to press statement issued by deputy prime minister’s office, ECNEC greenlighted Rs 52,772.52 million for establishment of Nawaz Sharif Institute of Cancer Treatment and Research in Lahore. Project will be financed through the Annual Development Programme of government of Punjab. PC-I envisaged provision of low cost quality and comprehensive cancer treatment through 915-bed Institute of Cancer and Research. Cancer treatment related healthcare services will be integrating various modalities such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and palliative care. Project also plans to accommodate patients having terminal illness in hospital. Project will engage highly qualified personnel such as medical and engineering professionals, technologists and administrative workforce. Project is being constructed on government owned land. Meanwhile, ECNEC also approved Sindh Livestock and Aquaculture Development Project, with budget of Rs 38,360 million, financed through assistance from World Bank. Project has two pillars and will support adoption of best management practices through institutional strengthening of livestock and fisheries sector, as well as promoting climate-smart production, value chain development and inclusive access to markets for dairy, meat, animal products and fisheries.

Another approved project is construction of 84 MW Gorkin Matiltan Hydropower Project (revised), with budget of Rs 35,758 million. It will be financed 20 percent through provincial Annual Development Programme and 80 percent through KP Hydel Development Fund. ECNEC also approved several projects in Transport and Communications sector, including construction and widening of 25 km Sibi-Talli Road and 91 km Kohlu-Rakhni Road (revised), with combined cost of Rs 8,401.227 million.