Karachi, The Sindh government, in its 42nd session of the People’s Party Policy Board chaired by Caretaker Chief Minister Justice (R) Maqbool Baqer, has decided to outsource four key entertainment locations in a bid to enhance their maintenance and facilities. The sites include Kenjhar Lake, Haliji Lake, Hawks Bay Resort, and Rani Kot Guest House.
According to Chief Minister Sindh, the decision was made to improve the recreational spaces and promote tourism in the region. The PPP unit was directed to submit suggestions for the necessary measures required for the upkeep and enhancement of these sites.
The session was attended by notable figures, including provincial caretaker minister Mubeen Jamani, Ishwar Lal, Arshad Wali Muhammad, Chief Secretary Dr. Fakhar Alam, Chairman P and D Shakeel Manganijo, and others. A detailed briefing was provided by DGPPP Unit Asad Zaman about the PPP framework, and suggestions were presented regarding the legal, institutional, and regulatory setup.
The Board reviewed various ongoing projects, including the Ghotki Kandhkot Bridge and Road Project, Miller Expressway Project, M9-N5 Link Road Project, Karachi Water Recycling Project, a 5 MGD Desalination Project, and NA D Technology Park. These projects were acknowledged for their achievements and awarded by the board.
Significant decisions were taken during the meeting, including the Nabisar to Vijhar Water Supply Project. This project aims to supply water through a 65 km long pipeline and is notable for its PPP mode water delivery mechanism. The Provincial Cabinet’s approval to invest Rs 4.6 billion in the project was commended by the board.
The feasibility of the Motor Vehicle Inspection Project was also discussed. This project involves setting up 32 vehicle inspection centers in Karachi to address the delay in vehicle inspections and improve environmental conditions. The board directed the appointment of a transactional advisor for a detailed feasibility study.
The Marble City Project, aimed at establishing marble and allied industries, was another focus of the meeting. Two revised project outlines were presented, and the second draft was approved by the board. This initiative is expected to save foreign exchange and create employment opportunities.
Lastly, the outsourcing of the Sindh Tourism Development Corporation Resorts was approved. The board agreed that private partnership in these resorts would enhance infrastructure and maintenance, thereby promoting tourism in Sindh.