Pakistan is at a critical crossroads in governance. With a population nearing 240 million in 2025, concentrated primarily in four provinces – Punjab with 128 million, Sindh with 56 million, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with 41 million, and Balochistan with 15 million – questions around effective administration, equitable resource distribution, and political representation have never been more pressing. The debate over whether to create new provinces or strengthen the local government system has intensified, fueled by regional disparities, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and political considerations. While proponents of new provinces argue that smaller administrative units can address governance challenges, a detailed investigation, supported by global comparisons and empirical data, suggests that prioritising municipal reforms offers more sustainable, cost-effective, and accountable solutions.

Pakistan’s governance operates on three levels: federal, provincial, and local government. Constitutionally, provinces enjoy significant autonomy under the 18th Amendment of 2010, yet the local government system often remains underpowered. Municipal authorities at the district, tehsil, and union council levels are tasked with public service delivery, infrastructure development, and local policy implementation. In practice, however, local governments face severe challenges. Financially, they are heavily dependent on provincial allocations, with over 80 per cent of their funds coming from provincial sources, limiting autonomy and responsiveness. Politically, frequent delays in local elections, the disbanding of councils, and provincial interference have weakened accountability mechanisms. Administratively, many municipal authorities suffer from understaffing, outdated systems, and limited technical expertise to manage urbanisation, healthcare, sanitation, and education demands effectively. These systemic weaknesses have sparked debate over the efficacy of creating new provinces to improve governance. Advocates argue that smaller administrative units can better manage resources and represent citizens, but this approach comes with high financial, political, and logistical costs, which merit careful examination.

Countries worldwide demonstrate that strong local governance can enhance service delivery, promote transparency, and increase citizen participation, often more efficiently than redrawing administrative boundaries. India’s Panchayati Raj system exemplifies decentralised governance. Established through the 73rd Constitutional Amendment in 1992, it empowers elected representatives at village, block, and district levels to plan and execute development projects. Districts with active Panchayati councils have seen 10-15 per cent higher literacy rates and immunisation coverage compared to centralised regions. Local planning reduced project delays and cost overruns, with communities directly........

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