Karachi, In a significant development for Sindh’s tourism sector, Caretaker Chief Minister Justice (Retd) Maqbool Baqar has announced the approval of outsourcing four major resorts for better service and rehabilitation. The resorts include Keenjhar Lake Resort, Haleji Lake Resort, Hawkesbay Resort, and Ranikot Guesthouse, aimed to enhance their potential as quality entertainment and recreational spaces.
According to Chief Minister Sindh, the decision was taken in the 42nd PPP Policy Board meeting. The board discussed various projects under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework, with significant focus on legal, institutional, and regulatory aspects. Attendees included Provincial Caretaker Ministers Mubeen Jumani, Ishwar Lal, Arshad Wali Mohammad, and other notable officials.
The PPP Unit, under DG Asad Zamin, presented detailed briefings on several major projects, including the Ghotki-Kandhkot Bridge and Road project, Malir Expressway project, and others. These projects were recognized for their achievements and impact on the region’s development.
Key projects discussed in the meeting included:
1. Nabisar to Vajihar Water Supply Project: This project, a first of its kind in PPP mode, aims to supply treated water through a 65km pipeline to IPPs at Thar Block II. The provincial cabinet approved an investment of Rs 4.6 billion in the project.
2. Motor Vehicle Inspection Project: This project will establish 32 vehicle inspection centers in Karachi, addressing inadequate vehicle inspection facilities. The project, financially sustainable through user fees, will not require government financial support.
3. Marble City Project: This project intends to develop a dedicated facility for marble and allied industries, expected to save foreign exchange and contribute to the economy by creating job opportunities. The Board approved a bidding structure focused on development costs rather than revenue sharing.
4. Outsourcing of Sindh Tourism Development Corporation Resorts: The Board approved the outsourcing of four resorts under PPP mode. The project aims to rehabilitate these facilities, exploring their true potential to provide quality entertainment and recreational options, thereby promoting tourism in Sindh.
The Board emphasized the need for hiring transaction advisors for detailed feasibility studies to develop these projects for bidding. These decisions are expected to significantly contribute to the development and economic growth of Sindh.