About time: ‘Sindh is ready for a census’

CM says Karachi package schemes will be completed by end of July

KARACHI: Sindh is ready for a census, said Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Sunday. The provincial government had already shown willingness to conduct a census in Sindh, however, the federal government could not take it up due to law and order issues. "Now, the situation has improved and the court has also ordered it therefore it will be conducted and the Sindh government will support it completely," he said.

He was speaking to the media after visiting different areas of the city on Sunday. He was accompanied by local government minister Jam Khan Shoro, Senator Saeed Ghani and senior officers who are heading the Karachi package programme.

"Census is important for nations as they help the policy makers make decisions for future," he said, adding he does not know about the population of Karachi.

Development projects

There was much hue and cry that the University Road is completely dilapidated, he said, adding that he visited the road to ensure its repair work has started.

"It has begun in two parts; from Hassan Square to Nipa Chowrangi and from there it will go up to Safoora Chowrangi," he informed.

While briefing the CM, Shoro said that the cost of the 4.4 kilometre road from NED University to Safoora Chowrangi is Rs777.9 million. Footpaths and service roads will also be constructed, he said, adding that they are also changing the water line where necessary.

Speaking about the cleanliness campaign, CM said it will start from District South and a garbage lifting contract has been awarded to a Chinese company which has already shipped the necessary machinery and will start work from January onwards.

"I also assure you that Rs10 billion Karachi package, which may cost more than the approved amount, will be completed by the end of July," he vowed, adding that work on widening of Sharae Faisal has been taken up.

Shah also saw the progress of the Tariq Road Scheme, which includes widening of the road, replacement of pipelines, construction of storm water drain and footpaths. The project will cost of Rs516.5 million.

He also saw the progress and pace of the road being constructed from Godra Chowk to Shafiq Mor, which will cost Rs34.5 million.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 12^th, 2016.