Govt compensating Gwadar expressway affectees

ISLAMABAD:

Some Gwadar expressway affectees have already been paid compensation and more funds are being sought from the government to compensate the remaining affected persons. Highlighting the practical measures being taken for the uplift of Gwadar, an official said the Balochistan government was working to ensure the provision of every facility to the masses of the coastal city.

The government had imposed ban on illegal fishing at the marine boundaries of Balochistan to curb the activity, he added. He further said the government would take strict action against boats involved in illegal fishing in its coastal waters. The office of the Director General (DG) Fisheries has also been relocated from Quetta to Gwadar to facilitate the fishermen.

“The province has a capacity to produce good quality fish and would generate more revenue by providing access to the global market,” he said. Local fishermen had been allowed to fish by completely abolishing the token system which would eventually increase the potential of the sector, he said. The government had been ordered the closure of unnecessary check posts at Gwadar along with the release of speed boats and vehicles of fishermen which were in the custody of coastal guards, he added. The roads and other Infrastructure were also being upgraded for easy access of the local fisherman to the port to transport their hunt into the markets.

“The government had lifted the restriction on PakIran border trade to boost the business activities in the area,” the official added. “The government was taking multiple initiatives to resolve the water issue in Gwadar on a permanent basis.” It is pertinent to note that Makran division is not connected with the National grid and is dependent on Iranian power supply. The official highlighted that the government was taking steps to connect these areas with the national grid to ensure an uninterrupted smooth power supply to provide relief to the masses