Massive Rs35 Billion Development Drive Launched by Sindh CM

10 Billion for Karachi’s Nullah Effects, 12.72 for

Hub Canal, Land Allotment for 3 Solar Parks

Establishment of “SEPRA” Approved

Staff Reporter

KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah led a cabinet meeting, approving over Rs35 billion for various development projects in Karachi and Sindh.

Key Approvals by the Sindh Cabinet

The meeting occurred at CM House, with Provincial Ministers, Advisors, Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah, and other officials in attendance. The following key projects received approval:

1. Rs10 Billion for Resettlement of Nullah Affectees

The Sindh government approved Rs10.065 billion to resettle 6,932 Gujjar, Mahmoodabad, and Orangi Nullahs affectees. The Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) proposed a funding structure, with staggered payments totaling Rs1.45 million per house. This decision aligns with a directive from the Supreme Court.

2. Rs12.72 Billion for Hub Canal Construction

The cabinet allocated Rs12.72 billion to rehabilitate and build the Hub Canal. This project is essential to ensure a steady water supply to Karachi. The Chief Minister set a deadline of September 2025 for its completion.

3. Rs200 Million for Jamila Pumping Station Overhaul

The cabinet approved Rs200 million for emergency repairs at the Jamila Sewerage Pumping Station. Built in 1880, the station now handles a heavy load of sewerage from the Old City Area and Lyari Town.

4. Establishment of Sindh Electric Power Regulatory Authority (SEPRA)

The cabinet created the Sindh Electric Power Regulatory Authority (SEPRA) to regulate electric power services in Sindh. This follows the new Sindh Regulation of Electric Power Services Act, 2023. The authority has a budget of Rs197.916 million for 2024-25.

5. Land Allotment for Strategic Projects

The Sindh government allocated land for several strategic projects:

• Railway Line from Thar Coal Field to Chhor: The government allotted 1,381.34 acres for a 105 km railway line to transport coal.
• Sindh Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases: The government provided 40 acres in Korangi District for a specialized cardiovascular hospital.
• Solar Parks: The government allocated 1,462 acres for three solar power parks in Jamshoro, West Karachi, and Malir districts, with a combined capacity of 320 MW.

6. People’s Information Technology Program (PITP)

The CM launched the People’s Information Technology Program (PITP) to equip 10,000 youth with IT skills and certifications. The program covers JAVA, Python, Database Administration, Graphic Design, E-Commerce, Digital Marketing, Web Development, Mobile App Development, and Data Science.

Additional Cabinet Decisions

The Sindh Revenue Board (SRB) will move from the CM Secretariat to the Finance Department, aligning with practices in other provinces.

Conclusion: These projects mark significant progress in Sindh’s development. CM Murad Ali Shah’s decisions will drive economic growth and improve the quality of life in Sindhh