Rs750 billion development programme highlights focus on infrastructure and public welfare
KARACHI, June 17, 2026 — Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Wednesday unveiled a Rs3.562 trillion budget for fiscal year 2026-27, proposing a 7% increase in salaries and pensions for government employees while refraining from imposing any new taxes.
The budget projects a fiscal deficit of Rs36.9 billion and allocates Rs750 billion for development spending, underscoring the provincial government’s focus on infrastructure, public welfare and economic growth.
Murad Ali Shah presented the budget in the Sindh Assembly for the thirteenth time amid protests from opposition lawmakers, who later staged a walkout.
“No new taxes have been imposed in the budget, reflecting the government’s commitment to providing relief to the public and the business community,” the chief minister told the assembly.
Salaries, Pensions and Minimum Wage Increased
The provincial government proposed a 7% increase in salaries and pensions for public sector employees as part of broader relief measures aimed at supporting households amid rising living costs.
In addition, Sindh increased the minimum monthly wage to Rs43,000, providing additional support to low-income workers across the province.
Rs750 Billion Development Outlay
Sindh has earmarked Rs750 billion for development projects during FY2026-27, with authorities pledging continued investment in infrastructure, poverty reduction and public services.
The chief minister said the budget was being presented against a backdrop of global economic uncertainty, citing geopolitical tensions, trade disruptions, market volatility and inflationary pressures.
“Recent regional developments have once again demonstrated Pakistan’s role as a voice of peace, stability and principled diplomacy,” he said.
Karachi Receives Over Rs100 Billion
Karachi will receive a major share of the development budget, with Rs100.19 billion allocated for projects in the metropolitan city.
The funding will support infrastructure upgrades, traffic management, sanitation, water supply and education initiatives aimed at improving urban services and living standards.
“Development projects worth billions for Karachi’s infrastructure, traffic, sanitation, water and education sectors have become part of the budget,” Shah said.
Shahrah-e-Bhutto Extension Announced
The government also announced plans to extend Shahrah-e-Bhutto from Qayyumabad to Karachi Port.
Officials said the roadway currently serves around 25,000 vehicles daily, and the extension is expected to improve connectivity and reduce congestion in key areas of the city.
Opposition Raises Concerns
Opposition Leader Ali Khursheedi criticised the budget, arguing that urban Sindh had not received sufficient representation in provincial spending priorities.
“Urban Sindh was not represented in the budget,” he said.
The budget was approved earlier by the provincial cabinet during a meeting chaired by the chief minister and attended by ministers, advisers and senior officials.
