KARACHI: A meeting of the Senate Standing Sub-Committee on Industries and Production was convened at Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM) in Karachi to assess the financial and administrative challenges currently facing the organization. The session delved into several critical issues, including the financial status of PSM, land encroachments, manpower shortages, employee dues, and ongoing theft incidents at the facility.

According to Senate of Pakistan, the Sub-Committee, consisting of Senator Syed Masroor Ahsan, Senator Syeda Khalida Ateeb, and Senator Danesh Kumar, was briefed by PSM officials about the acute shortage of security personnel. The officials highlighted that only about 190 security guards are in service, many of whom require further professional training. Additionally, they noted that the Defence Security Force (DSF), which currently supplements PSM’s security, is scheduled to withdraw its personnel by September 30, 2026. The PSM management requested a phased withdrawal of DSF personnel to allow time for bolstering its security capabilities and outsourcing additional security needs.

The meeting also addressed the issue of nearly 7,000 plots in Gulshan-e-Hadeed Phase-IV, which are in the process of being allotted at subsidized market rates. Concerns were raised about the low conviction rate despite numerous arrests in connection with thefts at the Mills. Senator Danesh Kumar called for improved investigation and prosecution to ensure that those involved in criminal activities are held accountable.

Senator Syeda Khalida Ateeb identified theft at PSM as a chronic, organized issue and urged for systemic and institutional reforms. Senator Syed Masroor Ahsan criticized the encroachment of approximately 290 acres of PSM land and stressed the importance of protecting national assets like Pakistan Steel Mills.

In light of the challenges, the Sub-Committee recommended that relevant financial authorities assist PSM in recruiting necessary security personnel. The Committee also engaged with representatives of the employees’ union to discuss their grievances and requested detailed responses from PSM management for the next meeting.