FPCCI calls upon KP Govt to implement EDF funded projects

PESHAWAR: Regional Chairman of Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industries (FPCCI) on Horticulture Exports Ahmad Jawad has said that federal government funded in three agriculture sector projects but Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government could not be implemented and a fund of Rs103.727 million remained un-utilised for last thirteen years.

In a statement here Monday, he said due to failure in timely completion the cost of the projects had reached to Rs 202.500 million. The projects were included the establishment of Dhaki Dates Processing Plant at D I Khan, Haripur Collection Point & Cold Storage and Batkhela Collection Point & Cold Storage.

The objectives of the projects were to cater to the demands of fruits and vegetable growers, processors and exporters and to focus on entire supply chain and were funded under Export Development Fund (EDF).

Jawad said Country horticulture sector remain neglected on part of the KP government despite we have initiated numerous requests with the KP officials in written. Even last year we sent the letter to the KP agriculture minister on budget recommendations but not a single recommendation was been taken care in the provincial budget.

The FPCCI official said KP province is blessed with National agriculture produce varieties with delicious fruits and vegetables, but continuously ignored.

It is imperative that Supply Chain may be developed in the valley of Swat, Charsada and other producing areas. Despite exporters were complaining on the lack of infrastructure.

Jawad also called upon the KP agriculture department to work closely with the FPCCI regional office so that horticulture sector and its exports may flourish in this province. As after 18th amendment provinces have more resources and agriculture development is a complete subject on part of the provinces.