LAHORE: The debate over the creation of new provinces has gained renewed attention, with supporters arguing that smaller provinces could improve governance, administrative efficiency and delivery of public services.
Former federal minister for information Muhammad Ali Durani speaking at a seminar here at Lahore Press Club said that large provinces, particularly Punjab, face administrative challenges because of their large populations and geographical size. He believes new provinces like Bahawalpur and Hazara could bring government institutions closer to the people and help ensure more balanced development.
He suggested to divide Punjab into three provinces, while similar ideas have been discussed for Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Opponents, however, argue that creating new provinces could increase political and ethnic tensions and lead to disputes over boundaries, resources and representation.
Ahmad Awais Sheikh stress that such a major constitutional change should only be made after broad political and public consensus.
The debate also includes demands for a South Punjab or Saraiki province, as well as calls for a Hazara province in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Political and constitutional experts like Ch Manzoor Hussain and Abid Hussain Sagi former president Lahore Bar say the focus should be on whether new provinces would genuinely improve governance rather than simply serve political interests. Strengthening local governments and devolving administrative powers are also being proposed as alternatives.
The issue is therefore likely to remain an important subject of political debate, with supporters like Imtiaz Alam, Ali Ahmad and Oreya MacBook Jaan viewing new provinces as a means of improving administration and opponents warning against decisions that could deepen regional divisions.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026