Concerns are growing within the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) over the state of Peshawar development. A recent PTI district-level meeting in Peshawar highlighted frustration over the lack of progress in the city. Senior party members voiced serious reservations about the provincial government’s performance.
The meeting was chaired by PTI Peshawar President Irfan Saleem. Former deputy speaker Mahmood Jan, Member National Assembly Shandana Gulzar, and other key figures also attended. The attendees openly criticized the government’s poor handling of civic affairs and urban growth.
A formal communiqué was issued after the meeting. It stated that although Peshawar has been a PTI stronghold, the city’s condition remains poor. Despite PTI being in power for a third term, Peshawar development continues to face neglect.
The communiqué highlighted that several constituencies had been ignored in terms of basic infrastructure projects. The city’s sewerage system is in a shambles. Even moderate rainfall leads to serious flooding.
Participants blamed the Water and Sanitation Services Peshawar (WSSP) for mismanaging the sanitation setup. Many neighborhoods still don’t have access to clean drinking water. Proper street lighting is also missing in several parts of the city.
The statement stressed the urgent need for economic activity and urban development in Peshawar. Business growth has slowed down. The real estate market has collapsed. It also raised concerns over shifting Peshawar’s allocated funds to other districts.
The failure to launch the long-proposed Safe City Project was strongly criticized. This initiative was introduced in 2009 but remains unexecuted. Similarly, the Indus Hospital project is still on hold due to administrative delays.
Party leaders warned that if these Peshawar development issues are not resolved soon, protests may follow.
Reacting to the situation, Arbab Asim, the chief minister’s focal person for mega projects, responded to the criticism. He said multiple development projects are already underway in Peshawar and across the province. He promised that the suggestions given in the meeting would be reviewed and implemented where possible.
In a media interview, PTI Peshawar President Irfan Saleem clarified the purpose of the meeting. He said the session was held at the party level to share internal grievances. “Our criticism is not only for the provincial government but also for our own elected members,” he stated. He emphasized that the city’s issues have remained unresolved for more than ten years.
Meanwhile, Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif, Adviser to the Chief Minister on Information, defended the administration’s performance. He said the chief minister is focused on balanced urban growth across all districts. “Several mega schemes are moving forward based on public needs. Any concerns raised will be addressed,” he added.
The issue of Peshawar development has now become a pressing challenge for both the party and the government. Citizens and party members alike are demanding visible progress and immediate action.
