MARDAN: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Minister for Revenue and Estates Tariq Mahmood Aryani has said the provincial government will introduce measures in the upcoming budget aimed at providing maximum relief to the public, while also prioritizing development projects across the province.
Speaking to members of the Mardan Press Club at the residence of PTI central leader and Member of the National Assembly Muhammad Atif Khan, Aryani said the government remains committed to addressing public concerns and improving service delivery.
The minister said Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is seeking the release of what he described as Rs4.7 trillion in outstanding dues from the federal government, adding that the province has a legitimate claim to those funds. He said the additional resources would support public welfare and development initiatives.
Rs50 billion development package for Mardan
Aryani announced that Chief Minister Sohail Afridi had approved a development package worth more than Rs50 billion for Mardan following requests from Atif Khan and local lawmakers.
According to the minister, Rs5 billion has been allocated for traffic management and road improvements, including the expansion of major intersections. Another Rs1 billion has been earmarked for the Safe City Project and the modernization of police stations.
He added that funds have also been allocated for the solarization of educational institutions across the district.
Revenue reforms and anti-encroachment campaign
The minister said the provincial government is working to make the revenue system more transparent by digitizing land records and related administrative processes.
He also announced a campaign against illegal land occupation, stating that government land allegedly occupied by land grabbers would be recovered through legal action. Aryani said authorities had been instructed to proceed without discrimination against anyone found involved in unlawful occupation of public land.
Land ownership and compensation issues
Aryani said the government is addressing legal and administrative hurdles related to the conversion of cultivated tenancy land into ownership rights.
He also assured that pending compensation payments to landowners whose properties were acquired for universities and colleges would be processed and paid.
Comments on political developments
The minister also commented on internal political matters within Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), saying Chief Minister Sohail Afridi continues to enjoy the confidence of PTI founder Imran Khan.
Aryani alleged that some party members opposing the chief minister were motivated by personal interests. He maintained that Afridi’s position remains secure as long as he retains the support of the party leadership.
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