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Express Tribune
23-05-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Water, drainage issues raised in PA
Opposition MPAs raise the issues of lack of water supply during heatwave and cleaning of drains before the rains. Sindh Assembly on Thursday passed a resolution condemning the armed attack and arson at the residence of Home Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar in Moro. During the session, several bills were also passed, and members raised multiple call-attention notices on matters of public importance. MQM MPA Qurat-ul-Ain raised the issue of drainage before the upcoming monsoon season in Karachi. She stressed the need to clean major nallas. Saeed Ghani responded that the Sindh government allocates large funds to KMC for cleaning of nallas. This time, KMC demanded Rs800 million. Work is ongoing to fix the flow of large nallas mostly clogged by plastic bags. Ghani said that 45 major nallas of the city will be cleared in June. Jamaat-e-Islami Muhammad Farooq raised concerns over severe water shortage in his PS-91 constituency. He said that while there is no water shortage at hydrants, water is now sold through contracts. During the proceedings, Minister for Local Government Saeed Ghani presented the resolution condemning the attack on residence of Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar in Moro. He stated that while everyone has the right to protest, no law or constitution in the world grants anyone the right to block roads or set homes on fire. The Council of Common Interests (CCI) has made it clear that no new canal can be constructed without the consensus of all provinces, some individuals continue to protest and create unrest, Ghani said. Opposition Leader Ali Khursheedi, Jamaat-e-Islami's parliamentary leader Muhammad Farooq, and Pakistan Tehreek-e-eInsaf (PTI) MPA Owais Ahmed Khan also supported the resolution and called the incident deeply regrettable. All members stood from their seats in support when the resolution was passed. During the session, PPP MPA Saadia Javed presented a resolution condemning the attack in Khuzdar, which was unanimously approved by the House. Countering narrative of extremism and terrorism The House unanimously passed a bill to establish a Center for Excellence to combat extremism and terrorism. The bill was presented by the Minister for Parliamentary Affairs. MQM member Sabir Qaimkhani suggested sending the bill to the standing committee. However, Zia Lanjar stressed the importance of the bill, and said similar centers being established in other provinces. The Sindh Assembly passed an amendment bill for Aror University of Art in Sukkur and appointed Taha Ahmed and Adil Askari to the Board of Governors of Nazir Hussain University. Several call-attention notices addressed public concerns. MQM's Rashid Khan highlighted the illegal occupation of 1,500 Workers Welfare Board flats in Hyderabad, demanding their allocation to deserving laborers. Labour Minister Shahid Theem stated a committee was formed to ensure merit-based distribution. MQM's Fauzia Hameed raised the issue of age relaxation for youth in government jobs, advocating for similar relief as approved by the National Assembly. Zia Lanjar noted the Sindh government previously offered a 15-year relaxation, later reduced to five years by Supreme Court order. He welcomed the proposal to increase the age limit for commissioned officers from 30 to 35, allowing five attempts, calling it worthy of consideration.
Business Recorder
20-05-2025
- Politics
- Business Recorder
Sindh PA slams KE for carrying out ‘unjustified' load-shedding
KARACHI: The Sindh Assembly on Monday strongly criticised K-Electric for carrying out 'unjustified and indiscriminate' load-shedding, even targeting the government departments that regularly 'pay their bills.' Expressing frustration during the session over prolonged power outages, Sindh Local Government Minister, Saeed Ghani criticised the utility provider for failing to spare essential public offices, calling the disruptions 'unacceptable and unwarranted.' He asked the power provider to streamline its operations in a bid to protect the paying consumers from unnecessary outages. He also answered several call attention notices, highlighting ongoing efforts to address water supply issues. The minister told the house that a repair work on the canal at the Hub Dam, along with the construction of a new canal, is progressing rapidly and expected to be completed by the end of this year, improving water supply to connected areas. However, he acknowledged that Karachi's water demand exceeds available resources. The government is taking all possible measures to ensure equitable distribution of the available water, he assured the legislators. On the instructions of PPP Chairman, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, he said, the Lyari Transformation Project is set to commence and will be included in this year's Annual Development Programme. The project aims to improve water supply, sewerage, and infrastructure in Lyari. He said that a study for the project has been successfully completed. Under this comprehensive initiative, key infrastructure in Lyari will undergo significant improvements. The project covers the complete overhaul of the sewerage and water systems, rehabilitation of roads and streets, and the restoration and development of public parks, the minister added. The goal of the project is to uplift the living standards of residents by addressing long-standing civic issues. Once implemented, it is expected to provide tangible benefits to the general public and contribute to the overall urban development of the area, according to Saeed Ghani. Sindh Women Development Minister Shaheena Sher Ali informed the Assembly during the question-and-answer session said that her department resolved 2,380 complaints in the fiscal year 2022–23. These included cases of karo-kari, domestic violence, and other women-related issues. Responding to MQM female member, Bilquis Mukhtar, she said all received complaints had been addressed, highlighting that the department remains proactive in providing support and shelter to women in distress. In reply to another question by MQM's Muhammad Shariq, Shaheena Sher Ali explained that women seeking help are accommodated at Darul Aman shelters, where they receive vocational training to help them lead independent lives. 'Women are assessed for their mental health before being enrolled in suitable skill development programmes,' she said that many have successfully transitioned into self-sufficient roles through training in beauty services, sewing, and other practical skills. The minister noted that several women already possess skills when they arrive and are employed to train others within the shelter, eliminating the need for external instructors. These women are paid salaries for their contributions. She further informed the house that the Karachi Darul Aman operates in partnership with Panah NGO, while other shelters are located in Sukkur, Nawabshah, Larkana, and Hyderabad. Budgets for each facility are based on occupancy, and the minister herself visits every shelter twice a year. Women at these facilities are provided with essential items, and urgent cases are promptly addressed. Some women are shifted to safe houses when their cases are resolved within a few days. Those struggling with substance abuse are sent to rehabilitation centres. Round-the-clock medical care is ensured by the presence of a female doctor. Children accompanying their mothers attend classes from 8 am to noon. Training is also offered in jewelry-making and salon work, and legal assistance is provided free of charge. Shaheena Sher Ali emphasised that all shelter homes are directly managed by the Sindh government, ensuring comprehensive care and rehabilitation for vulnerable women across the province. Lawmakers also voted on the Sindh Explosives (Repeal) Bill 2024 and the Denning Institute Of Technology and Entrepreneurship Bill, 2025. Sindh Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Zia-ul-Hasan Lanjar presented the reports of the relevant standing committees before the bills were approved. During the sitting, the house also introduced The Aga Khan Properties (Succession and Transfer) Bill 2025, aimed at amending existing laws related to those assets. The assembly was adjourned until 2 pm on Tuesday (today). Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Express Tribune
19-05-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Explosives, Tech Education bills sail through PA
The Sindh Assembly during its session on Monday, chaired by Speaker Syed Owais Qadir Shah, approved two bills - the Sindh Explosive Bill 2024 and the Sindh Technical Education Bill. Before the approval, Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar presented the reports of the standing committees on the bills. A bill related to Aga Khan properties was also introduced. The aim of which is to change the law related to the properties of the Aga Khan. Later, the Sindh Assembly session was adjourned until 2pm on Tuesday. The session was followed by the question hour on the Women Development Department. Provincial Minister Shaheena Sher Ali answered various written and supplementary questions of the members related to her department, while several attention notices of public importance were also presented. In response to a question from MQM member, Bilqis Mukhtar, provincial minister Shahina Sher Ali said that a total 2,380 complaints were received in the year 2022-23 and all the complaints including honour killing, domestic violence and others were resolved. In response to a question from MQM member, Muhammad Shariq, Shahina Sher Ali said that after filing a complaint, women come to shelter home where they can learn skills. The provincial minister said that after looking at the mental health of the women coming to shelter home, it is decided to teach them a skill. Beauty parlour, sewing, and other courses are conducted at the shelter home. Women, who already possess these skills, they teach other women, and they are paid salaries. Shahina Sher Ali mentioned that shelter home are established in Karachi, Sukkur, Nawabshah, Larkana and Hyderabad. Shahina further mentioned that drug addict women are sent to rehabilitation centres where lady doctors are available round-the-clock. Provincial minister for local government, Saeed Ghani informed the house that the government pays K-Electric dues regularly and none of the LG institutions or buildings are defaulters. However, despite timely payments, K-Electric carries out load shedding. The chief minister has a clear stance that K-Electric should ensure uninterrupted supply of electricity to the institutions or people who pay their bills in full and on time. In response to a call attention notice from MQM member Jamal Ahmed, Saeed Ghani said that the water supply from Hub will increase by the end of this year, while steps are being taken to improve the water supply from the University Reservoir in the next 2 to 3 weeks. In response to another call attention notice from Sunni Ittehad Council MPA Sajjad Soomro, Saeed Ghani said that the entire sewage system in Lyari runs from the pumping station and the load shedding period here is getting longer from 12 to 16 hours.
Business Recorder
19-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
HCSTSI President welcomes development decisions of HDA
HYDERABAD: President Hyderabad Chamber of Small Traders & Small Industry (HCSTSI), Muhammad Saleem Memon, has welcomed the major development decisions taken during the recent 120th Governing Body meeting of the Hyderabad Development Authority (HDA), commending the leadership of Sindh Minister for Local Government, Saeed Ghani, HCSTSI President appreciated the swift approvals of development projects and financial allocations for Gulistan-e-Sarmast and other residential schemes, calling them a reflection of the Sindh Government's serious commitment to improving the urban infrastructure of Hyderabad. In a formal letter addressed to the Minister, the Chamber President Saleem Memon acknowledged the positive steps taken so far but emphasized the need for further practical and sustainable measures to ensure long-term benefits of these decisions. He strongly recommended that at least 70% of the revenue generated from Gulistan-e-Sarmast and other ongoing HDA schemes must be reinvested directly into their respective areas to promote self-sufficiency and continuous development. He highlighted the urgent necessity for establishing a dedicated grid station for Gulistan-e-Sarmast, in line with NEPRA policies, to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply. He also called for the immediate completion of the long-pending 36-inch water supply line, which has been delayed since 2009. Emphasis was laid on expediting internal road construction, drainage systems, and provision of water and electricity lines particularly in neglected sectors such as Kohsar Extension that have been deprived of basic amenities for decades. HCSTSI President further urged the launch of new schemes under the Annual Development Program (ADP) for water filtration and sewerage treatment plants in severely underserved areas, including Gulistan-e-Sarmast, Kohsar Zone, Bypass, and New Hyderabad City. He stressed need for complete revision of existing zoning strategies, proposing that each designated residential or commercial zone must be equipped with all basic utilities within a defined timeframe to prevent land misuse and speculation. He asserted this, would encourage legal occupancy and promote healthy commercial activity. Chamber President called on HDA to prioritize the completion of infrastructure work in pending schemes and to organize well-planned plot auctions thereafter. This would not only enhance the Authority's revenue but also help regain the lost market value of land. Expressing concern over the diminishing public trust in HDA due to years of neglect and unfulfilled commitments, he urged the Authority to take immediate and visible actions to restore public confidence through reliable service delivery. He also suggested outsourcing key development works to ensure quality and timely execution. Most significantly, HCSTSI President made a strong case for the inclusion of Hyderabad's business community especially representation from HCSTSI in the Governing Body meetings of HDA. He emphasized that direct participation would allow the ground realities, public grievances, and trade-related concerns to be effectively presented at the policy level, leading to more practical and people-centric urban planning. Concluding his remarks, he expressed hope that under the leadership of Saeed Ghani, the Local Government Department will continue to play a pivotal role in making Hyderabad's development more transparent, effective, and citizen-focused. He added that if the Chamber's recommendations are adopted in the next Governing Body meeting, Hyderabad will progress rapidly towards becoming a well-planned and modern city. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Express Tribune
17-05-2025
- Health
- Express Tribune
NADRA issues CNICs with lifetime validity for citizens
Listen to article The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has launched a new initiative offering lifetime Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs) to Pakistani citizens who voluntarily pledge to donate their organs. These Smart National Identity Cards will carry a green heart symbol as a mark of humanitarian contribution. Eligible individuals aged 18 or above can obtain the marked Smart National Identity Card (SNIC) or National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) by visiting any NADRA registration centre. The feature is also accessible via the Pak-ID mobile application. اعضاء عطیہ کرنے والے افراد کا شناختی کارڈ تاحیات میعاد اور خصوصی نشان کے ساتھ متعلقہ ڈونر رجسٹریشن اتھارٹیز میں رجسٹرڈ 18 سال اور زائد عمر کے افراد نادرا دفتر تشریف لائیں یا پاک آئی ڈی موبائل ایپ کے ذریعے خصوصی نشان والا سمارٹ کارڈ یا نائکوپ بنوائیں — NADRA (@NadraPak) May 15, 2025 Meanwhile, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has launched a digital system for birth and death registration at hospitals and healthcare centres across the country. According to a NADRA spokesperson, agreements have been signed between NADRA and provincial governments to modernise the civil registration system. Read more: A formal signing ceremony was held in Karachi, where the Sindh secretary of health, the secretary of local government, and NADRA Sindh Director General Ehtesham Shahid signed the agreement. Sindh's Minister for Local Government Saeed Ghani was also present at the event.
