MQM-P seeks Karachi–Hyderabad development package in budget talks with PM Shehbaz

ISLAMABAD: A delegation of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday and presented a set of budget-related proposals, including demands for a special development package for Karachi and Hyderabad, according to sources.

The delegation, led by party convener Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, included Farooq Sattar, Aminul Haque and Javed Hanif. Senior federal ministers Rana Sanaullah and Ahsan Iqbal were also present during the meeting, sources said.

Development priorities for Sindh cities

During the meeting, MQM-P called for a targeted package for Karachi and Hyderabad, alongside major infrastructure initiatives.

The party also demanded early completion of the ML-1 railway project between Karachi and Rohri on a fast-track basis, as well as the construction of a motorway linking Karachi and Hyderabad.

It further proposed enhanced connectivity between Karachi Port and Hyderabad as part of broader regional development planning.

Sources said the delegation emphasised the need to address long-standing urban infrastructure challenges in Sindh’s urban centres.

Political and fiscal demands

MQM-P also urged the federal government to reinstate the office of Governor Kamran Tessori and pressed for the swift introduction of a constitutional amendment related to the local government system.

According to sources, the Prime Minister reportedly agreed in principle on the constitutional amendment matter, with a consensus to jointly engage the Pakistan Peoples Party on the issue.

The delegation additionally called for a 25 per cent increase in salaries in the upcoming budget. Sources added that it was agreed during the meeting that the PML-N and MQM-P would jointly take up key proposals with the PPP as part of broader budget consultations.