KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has instructed the Investment Department to speed up the development of the Dhabeji Special Economic Zone (DSEZ), a significant initiative under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of allocating plots to investors by the end of the year to ensure the zone’s operational readiness.

In a meeting at the CM House, attended by senior government officials including Planning and Development Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah and CEO of Sindh Economic Zones Management Company Azeem Uqaili, the progress of DSEZ was reviewed. The project, which began in April 2024, has seen the completion of essential infrastructure such as electricity, gas, and water supply lines.

Murad Shah stressed the necessity of expediting the remaining work to make the zone functional, aiming to generate employment and attract investments. He set a timeline for plot allocation to begin by the year’s end, with the zone expected to be ready for industrial activities by early 2026.

A critical component discussed was the construction of a road connecting Port Qasim to the Dhabeji SEZ, which Shah identified as crucial for logistics and investor access. He urged relevant departments to prioritize this project.

The DSEZ, spanning over 1,500 acres, is strategically located near Karachi Port and Port Qasim, and is poised to host industries such as engineering, pharmaceuticals, and auto parts. The Chief Minister reiterated the zone’s strategic importance for the province and stressed the need for inter-departmental cooperation to streamline processes for local and international investors.

Murad Shah assured full government support to address any challenges and directed all departments to provide weekly progress reports, emphasizing coordination with federal authorities for necessary approvals.