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Economic Coordination Committee boosts “Mera Ghar” scheme loan ceiling and approves Thar rail grant.
Aftab Maken
ISLAMABAD: The Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet on Thursday approved an increase in the “Mera Ghar Mera Aashiana” mortgage scheme loan limit to Rs10 million, introducing a uniform 5% end-user rate to expand affordable housing access. The committee also sanctioned infrastructure grants, including Rs6.61 billion for Thar coal rail connectivity.
The meeting, chaired by Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb at the Finance Division, reviewed the Ministry of Housing and Works’ summary. Officials said the scheme has received over 10,594 applications since its launch, with disbursements already in progress. Under the revised framework, eligible housing unit sizes have been broadened to reach more beneficiaries.
The uniform 5% markup replaces earlier tiered rates, ensuring consistent pricing across all loans. Housing finance targets have been scaled over a four-year horizon and will continue under the State Bank of Pakistan’s supervision. Previously disbursed loans will be recalibrated to the new 5% rate, promoting uniformity among beneficiaries. Subsidy payments will be strictly aligned with actual disbursements within fiscal allocations.
The government expects the program to boost construction activity and generate jobs in allied industries. Pakistan’s construction sector accounts for roughly 2.3% of GDP, with strong linkages to cement, steel, transport, and labor markets, according to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics 2025 report. Policymakers have noted that housing finance remains underdeveloped compared to regional peers.
Separately, the ECC approved a Rs7.289 million Technical Supplementary Grant for Islamabad Capital Territory under the National Program for Enhancing Command Areas in Barani Areas. The initiative aims to improve water management and boost agricultural productivity in rain-fed regions. Officials said the funding will strengthen resource utilization in vulnerable farming zones.
The committee also cleared Rs6.61 billion for the Thar Coal Rail Connectivity Project, facilitating coal transport from Thar to power plants and industrial units. Authorities said improved logistics will enhance energy security, reduce reliance on imports, and ease pressure on foreign exchange reserves.
The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, federal secretaries, and senior officials from relevant ministries and regulatory bodies. The approvals reflect the government’s focus on housing expansion, agricultural support, and energy-linked infrastructure as part of its broader fiscal and development strategy.
