The Sindh government’s Public-Private Partnership (PPP) program has emerged as a transformative initiative to bridge the gap between government entities and private sector companies to finance, build, operate, or manage infrastructure projects or services traditionally provided by the public sector.
The Sindh government launched this program to accelerate infrastructure development and improve service delivery and since has been widely recognised as a success in Pakistan and internationally. The Economist Intelligence Unit’s Infrascope Report in 2018 ranked Sindh’s PPP program sixth (6th) among emerging markets, highlighting its effectiveness in fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors. This ranking has solidified its reputation as a leading model for development in Pakistan pioneered by the Sindh Government.
Overview of the Program
The Sindh PPP program operates on the principle of collaboration between the government and private entities. It leverages the expertise, efficiency, and capital of private partners to execute projects that would otherwise strain public resources. This approach addresses critical challenges, including limited government budgets and administrative inefficiencies, while ensuring high-quality outputs for the public.
Since its inception, the program has been overseen by the Public-Private Partnership Unit (PPPU) within the Finance Department, which ensures transparency, accountability, and efficiency in project implementation.
Key Sectors and Projects
The Sindh PPP program spans various sectors, including:
- Transportation and Infrastructure:
The Shahrah-e-Bhutto Expressway: an upcoming six-lane project, will significantly reduce travel time and connect Karachi’s industrial zones to the rest of Sindh.
Hyderabad-Mirpurkhas Dual Carriageway
Karachi-Thatta Dual Carriageway
Sir Agha Khan Jhirk-Mulla Katiyar Bridge
Ghotki-Kandhkot Bridge Project: Reducing travel times significantly by reducing the distance between Ghotki & Kandhkot from 170km to 30km.
M9-N5 link Road Project: significantly reducing commute times.
Karachi-Hyderabad Motorway (M-9): A project to convert a 4-lane highway into a 6-lane motorway.
The PPP framework has enhanced connectivity and boosted economic activity through the above projects across the province. Although most of these are supposed to be funded by the federal government, the Sindh government has decided to take matters into its own hands by developing the province through PPP programs instead of their reliance on federal funds.
- Health and Education:
Performance-based management programs across the province in Healthcare such as the People’s Primary Healthcare Initiative (PPHI), rural healthcare facilities have been revitalized, offering improved services to underprivileged communities.
Education management organizations (EMOs) have taken over public schools under a PPP model to deliver better educational outcomes.
3.Energy:
Projects like the Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC) showcase how public-private collaboration can harness local resources to address the energy crisis.
Sindh Nooriabad Power Company provides 100MW through the PPP model. The future of Energy projects in the province is immense in the form of green-renewable energy zones.
- Water Supply and Waste Management:
Initiatives like desalination plants and modern waste management systems are being developed to tackle Karachi’s urban challenges.
- Special Economic Zone (SEZ):
The Dhabeji Special Economic Zone (SEZ) has entered into a PPP with the Sindh Government to jointly develop and manage the zone. This partnership aims to accelerate infrastructure development, promote industrial growth, and attract both local and international investments.
Impact and Achievements
The Sindh PPP program has garnered significant attention for its success in delivering sustainable development outcomes. Some notable achievements include:
Increased Efficiency: The private sector’s involvement ensures that projects are completed on time and within budget.
Economic Growth: Improved infrastructure has attracted investment, creating jobs and spurring economic growth.
Recognition: The Economist Intelligence Unit’s 2018 Infrascope Report ranked Sindh’s PPP program sixth among emerging markets, recognizing its success in promoting collaboration between the public and private sectors. This achievement has established it as a prominent development model across the globe.
The Sindh government’s Public-Private Partnership program is a pioneering effort to tackle the province’s developmental challenges through innovation and collaboration. By bringing together the strengths of the public and private sectors, it has set a benchmark for other provinces in Pakistan. With continued focus and strategic planning, the program promises to drive Sindh toward sustainable growth and improved living standards for its citizens.
