ISLAMABAD, Oct 16: A parliamentary body on Tuesday expressed displeasure over non-release of funds by the finance ministry causing delays in completion of development projects.

Responding to questions by members of a sub-committee of Senate Standing Committee on Finance, officials of Wapda and Planning Commission said that the finance ministry was not releasing funds in time.

The sub-committee directed Wapda and the Planning Commission to submit detailed reports on all development projects that could not be completed, especially PSDP-funded projects in Balochistan.

Sardar Fateh Mohammad Hassani said that the government and the parliament were striving hard to introduce development projects in the province, but actions of the finance ministry were damaging integrity of all concerned.

There is shortage of water in Gwadar which is to be met through water from Mirani Dam, but unfortunately the scheme is still incomplete.

The members demanded a through report over reasons for delays in completion of various development projects, including Kachhi Canal, RBOD-111, Mirani Dam and other water reservoirs.

Senator Hamayun Khan Mandokhel said that release of only token money for huge projects was causing hindrance in the completion of projects.

Member, Planning Commission, Lt-Gen (retd) Shahid Niaz said that funds release depended on size of the PSDP and during floods in 2010, the size of PSDP was curtailed to Rs180 billion from Rs280 billion.

The committee also recommended that small and near completion projects in Balochistan be completed on priority basis.

The committee also directed Wapda, Qesco, NTDC to ensure their participation in the next meeting.