Islamabad: The Central Development Working Party (CDWP) has approved a Rs5.7 billion development package to upgrade sports infrastructure in Pakistan ahead of the upcoming South Asian Games (SAG).

The approval was granted during a meeting on Wednesday, chaired by Planning Commission Deputy Chairman and Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal.

The funding package will cover extensive upgrades to existing facilities at the Pakistan Sports Complex in Islamabad, as well as improvements to sports infrastructure across other host cities. Officials stated that the rehabilitation and development work aims to enhance the quality, functionality, and operational readiness of venues required to host the regional multi-sport event.

Secretary of the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC) Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani welcomed the decision, describing it as a major achievement for the nation’s sports sector and a critical step towards hosting the competition successfully.

"The approval of the Rs. 5.7 billion infrastructure package is a major step forward for the successful hosting of the SAG," Wani said. He credited the Prime Minister and the Planning Commission with supporting efforts to strengthen sports infrastructure across the country.

Wani noted that the planned upgrades to the Pakistan Sports Complex and secondary facilities would provide visiting athletes and teams with improved venues, while leaving behind upgraded facilities that will benefit Pakistani sports over the longer term.

The government has increasingly focused on venue readiness to ensure the smooth conduct of events and a positive experience for participating delegations from across South Asia. With preparations extending beyond the main complex in the capital, authorities face the task of ensuring that construction, rehabilitation, and procurement work progress strictly in accordance with operational timelines.

Wani confirmed that the IPC ministry will coordinate with the Planning Commission and other relevant stakeholders to execute the projects and complete all work on schedule before the arrival of participating teams.

Pakistan will host the South Asian Games from April 3 to April 11 across multiple venues.