“We want the federal government to transfer
the funds promptly to facilitate
timely investment in the social sector”
Staff Reporter
Karachi: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has urged the federal government to ensure the timely transfer of funds collected by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). Speaking to the media after addressing the Pakistan Leadership Conversation 2025 at a local hotel, he expressed concerns over the delay, noting that while over Rs 80 billion was collected last year, the funds from the previous year have only been transferred now.
“We want the federal government to transfer the funds promptly to facilitate timely investment in the social sector,” he stated.
Concerns Over Fund Delays
The Chief Minister highlighted Sindh’s major concern regarding the delayed transfer of its rightful share of revenue. Despite timely tax collection, he noted, the province faces delays in receiving its funds. He urged the federal government to ensure prompt disbursement to support key development initiatives.
Domicile Irregularities Under Investigation
Addressing concerns over domicile irregularities, Murad Ali Shah assured that an investigation is underway. He reiterated that any individual found guilty of wrongdoing would face strict action, reaffirming the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
A Vision for Sustainable Development
In his keynote address at a high-profile gathering of dignitaries, government officials, and stakeholders, CM Murad Ali Shah outlined an ambitious vision for Sindh’s progress. Speaking on the theme “Building Resilience and Sustainability: Sindh’s Path Forward,” he stressed the need for transformative action in education, healthcare, water management, infrastructure, and economic development.
Addressing Key Challenges
Murad Ali Shah acknowledged Sindh’s rich cultural heritage and economic potential while emphasizing pressing socio-economic and environmental challenges. Key concerns include poverty, low literacy rates, malnutrition, high infant mortality, and water scarcity. He described the loss of up to 75% of Sindh’s water resources due to inefficient practices as “unacceptable” and vowed to implement sustainable solutions.
- Education: The provincial government is working to boost literacy rates and eliminate gender disparities in schools to ensure access to quality education for all children.
- Healthcare: Strengthening maternal and child health services remains a priority, with a focus on reducing infant mortality and malnutrition through infrastructure investments and targeted programs.
- Water Management: The Sindh Water and Agriculture Transformation Project aims to modernize irrigation, reduce water losses, and promote efficient agricultural practices to secure the province’s future.
Green Transport and Economic Growth
Murad Ali Shah announced that Karachi will introduce 500 electric buses as part of a three-phase plan to deploy 8,000 eco-friendly vehicles. This initiative is expected to reduce pollution, ease congestion, and enhance public transport.
Regarding CPEC 2.0, the Chief Minister expressed optimism about its role in industrialization and agricultural development. He noted that upgrades in transportation and energy infrastructure will enhance connectivity and create thousands of jobs across Sindh.
Call for Stronger Partnerships
Recognizing that Sindh’s transformation cannot occur in isolation, Murad Shah called for stronger partnerships with the federal government, international stakeholders, and the private sector. He emphasized that public participation is crucial to ensuring long-term resilience and sustainability.
Commitment to a Sustainable Future
The Chief Minister reaffirmed his government’s commitment to modernizing infrastructure, implementing sustainable practices, and fostering economic growth. “Resilience and sustainability are not just buzzwords; they are the guiding principles shaping Sindh’s future,” he stated.
The address received widespread support, with stakeholders applauding the government’s proactive approach to tackling Sindh’s most pressing challenges. As the province embarks on its journey toward progress, all eyes will be on the implementation of these ambitious plans.
