Pakistan is considering a major administrative restructuring that could increase the number of provinces from four to 12. The proposal also includes the possibility of holding a nationwide referendum before introducing the proposed 28th Constitutional Amendment.

According to Geo News, preliminary discussions suggest moving forward with the constitutional amendment during the first half of 2027. Initial steps could begin in the first quarter of that year.

Under the proposed plan, all four existing provinces could undergo administrative changes. Punjab could be divided into four separate provinces. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa could become three provinces under the proposal.

Similarly, Balochistan could be divided into three administrative units. Sindh could also be reorganized into two provinces. If implemented, these changes would increase Pakistan’s total number of provinces to 12.

The proposed restructuring aims to improve governance and public service delivery. It also seeks to bring government facilities closer to people across different regions. Authorities are considering the plan to address administrative difficulties and development gaps.

Another major part of the proposal involves a nationwide referendum. The public would be asked to express its views on increasing the number of provinces. This approach would allow citizens to participate in the broader discussion.

The proposed referendum aims to establish public support before the constitutional process moves forward. It would also prevent the decision from remaining exclusively within political negotiations. However, the exact arrangements for conducting the referendum have not been announced.

The plan is reportedly not designed to target any particular province. It also does not aim to weaken the political or administrative position of existing provincial units. Instead, the proposal focuses on population growth and administrative requirements.

Pakistan’s existing governance structure faces several challenges. These include population pressures, unequal development, and difficulties in managing public services. Creating additional provinces is being discussed as one possible approach.

However, dividing existing provinces would require significant constitutional and political changes. Authorities would need to determine new provincial boundaries and administrative structures. The distribution of financial resources would also require careful consideration.

Other important matters include provincial representation and administrative responsibilities. Government institutions and departments would also need to be transferred or reorganized. These issues could require extensive discussions among political stakeholders.

For now, the proposal remains at an early discussion stage. No final decision has been made regarding provincial boundaries or administrative arrangements. The constitutional process required for implementation also remains undecided.

In other related news also read PCB Announces Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Test Tickets

If the proposal moves forward, Pakistan could undergo one of its biggest administrative changes. However, its implementation would depend on political consultations, constitutional requirements, and public support.