KARACHI - Sindh Minister for Local Government Syed Nasir Hussain Shah on Saturday reaffirmed the provincial government's dedication to public service, continuous development, strengthening the local government system, and ensuring the provision of basic civic amenities to the people. Speaking during the budget debate in the Sindh Assembly, Shah stated that development projects are advancing rapidly across the province and their benefits are reaching the public.
Provincial Finance Commission and Budget Atmosphere
Nasir Shah announced that the Provincial Finance Commission (PFC) 2023 has already been constituted, and regular meetings will now be held to ensure transparent, fair, and timely distribution of financial resources among local government institutions. He highlighted that for the first time, the Chief Minister Sindh's budget speech was delivered and heard in a peaceful, dignified, and democratic atmosphere, reflecting the strengthening of democratic traditions in the Sindh Assembly and the government's seriousness in addressing public issues.
Infrastructure and Road Projects
The minister noted that several development projects, including those in Azizabad, have been completed, benefiting thousands of citizens. Additionally, construction and rehabilitation work on more than 150 small roads is progressing swiftly to improve urban mobility. He added that the Mayor of Karachi, other mayors, town chairmen, and elected local government representatives are effectively serving the people within their respective jurisdictions, and the Sindh Government is extending every possible financial and administrative support to further strengthen the local government system.
Shahrah-e-Bhutto Project of National Importance
Referring to the Shahrah-e-Bhutto project, Nasir Shah said certain elements are raising unjustified objections despite the fact that the project is not meant for any particular political party or locality but is of national importance. He emphasized that the project will significantly reduce traffic congestion in Karachi, promote industrial, commercial, and economic activities, and provide modern transportation facilities to citizens.
Section 144 Imposed on Rice Canal in Larkana
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of the Larkana Division, Rasheed Masood Khan, has imposed Section 144 and banned people from bathing in the Rice Canal following a recommendation from the Deputy Commissioner of Larkana. According to the issued notification, the ban has been imposed for 90 days on bathing in the Rice Canal and its associated canals passing through the jurisdiction of Larkana after an increase in drowning incidents involving people bathing in the canal. All concerned Station House Officers (SHOs) have been directed to strictly enforce Section 144 and have been authorized to take action against violators upon receiving any written complaint. Furthermore, officials of the Irrigation Department have been instructed to install warning signboards along the banks of the canal and its branches passing through the Larkana Division, informing the public about the bathing ban.
